Avangrid, Inc., a prominent sustainable energy company and part of the Iberdrola Group, recently announced the successful installation of the ‘Golden Row’ at its Powell Creek solar project located in Putnam County, Ohio, near Miller City.
This initial row of solar panels serves as a model for the remainder of the construction process. With the Golden Row in place, Avangrid has progressed further, now having installed over 1,000 panels.
CEO Statement and Project Significance
“I’m delighted to witness the impressive progress at our Powell Creek solar project. This is a significant achievement that sets a positive trajectory for the rest of construction,” remarked Pedro Azagra, Avangrid CEO.
“Powell Creek exemplifies Avangrid’s commitment to expanding renewable energy generation, assisting the nation in achieving its ambitious clean energy targets, and driving the clean energy transition.”
Project Scale and Economic Impact
Powell Creek is situated on land leased directly from landowners. Upon completion, it will house approximately 300,000 solar panels, producing enough energy to power a minimum of 30,000 homes annually.
The project is also generating up to 400 jobs during the construction phase, with the majority filled by local residents.
Community Benefits
Avangrid anticipates that the Powell Creek project will directly benefit the community through property tax payments and landowner compensation.
The neighboring town of Miller City has also annexed the project area, allowing it to collect revenue that will support the construction of a new sewer line.
This is a crucial step in enabling Miller City to expand by adding new homes and fostering development, which has historically been limited due to individual septic systems currently serving the village’s homes, businesses, and school.
Local Leadership Perspective
“We have been working towards this for a long time,” commented Miller City Mayor Jim Erford. “Powell Creek is projected to increase our tax base tenfold and allow our town to grow for the first time in many years. We are excited to welcome new development, families, and a renewed energy into our cherished community.”
Construction Progress and Company’s Ohio Portfolio
Construction at Powell Creek commenced late last year. This is Avangrid’s second renewable energy project in Ohio, following the Blue Creek wind farm built in 2012, which boasts a capacity of 304 MW and generates enough electricity to power approximately 76,000 homes each year.