RWE, the third largest renewable energy producer in the United States, has begun construction of its second solar farm in the state of Ohio. The Union Ridge project, with a capacity of 98 megawatts alternating current (MWac), is located in Licking County, in central Ohio. The company acquired the project from Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE) in autumn 2024.
Development of the Union Ridge Solar Farm represents a $68mn investment in the local economy of Licking County. The project is expected to generate approximately 280 direct jobs during the construction phase, including wages and benefits, as well as increased local procurement and tax contributions. These economic effects are also expected to boost surrounding services and local businesses.
Collaboration with local unions
RWE has partnered with MasTec Renewables for the project’s construction, with a specific objective of leveraging Ohio’s unionised craft workforce. The two companies are working with several local unions, including the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA), the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). This partnership enables the hiring of skilled workers for the construction and installation of the utility-scale solar farm.
Economic impact and support for workforce training
Kevin Kroll, Chief Operating Officer at RWE Clean Energy, stated: “Our Union Ridge project is a real example of how we collaborate with leading American companies to generate jobs and boost local economies with our homegrown energy.” According to him, the project also supports Ohio’s skilled workforce by developing long-term job opportunities in the renewable energy industry.
Mike Flynn, Senior Vice President of Operations at MasTec Renewables, added: “Our partnership with RWE for the Union Ridge project shows MasTec’s commitment to driving local economic growth and strengthening workforce development. This project creates hundreds of roles, from skilled labourers to utility electricians and solar panel assemblers.”
Total capacity and future outlook
The Union Ridge Solar Farm will add to the 400 MW of wind and solar assets already owned and operated by RWE in Ohio. Once completed, it will bring RWE’s total operating capacity in the state to nearly 500 MW—enough to power more than 118,000 average US homes annually.
