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Lightsource bp and Google have commissioned the 188 megawatt (MW) Honeysuckle Solar project in St. Joseph County, Indiana. This privately funded project supports the American supply chain while utilizing 85% local labor. The utility-scale solar farm enhances national energy security and promotes workforce development by creating stable jobs and offering professional training opportunities.
The Honeysuckle Solar project was constructed by Inovateus Solar LLC, a South Bend-based company, with a focus on employing local labor for mechanical, electrical, and civil work on site. With solar panels supplied by First Solar and smart solar trackers from Array Technologies, the solar farm contributes to clean and reliable energy production. Nucor provided the steel necessary for the project’s structure.
Furthermore, Lightsource bp and Google have signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) for the electricity generated by Honeysuckle Solar, thereby strengthening corporate investment in local communities. This partnership aligns with Google’s ambitious goal to operate all its campuses on clean electricity 24/7 by 2030, including the upcoming Fort Wayne data center.
The Honeysuckle Solar project will deliver $30 million in revenue to the local community over its lifetime, without increasing taxes for residents. It also supports American manufacturers and local unions, offering training opportunities and sustainable careers for workers.
Honeysuckle Solar is part of a broader initiative to develop renewable energy in the United States, demonstrating the tangible benefits of investing in domestic solar energy and contributing to the country’s energy independence while diversifying the electricity supply.
