Ribbon cutting held for local solar project

Shelby Reeves, Chillicothe Gazette
·2 min read
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Representatives from Ross County and ENGIE cut the ribbon on the Salt City Solar Project on Oct. 11, 2023.
Representatives from Ross County and ENGIE cut the ribbon on the Salt City Solar Project on Oct. 11, 2023.

CHILLICOTHE — Wednesday Ross County residents and local officials gathered at the Kinnikinnick Fen Nature Preserve to celebrate with ENGIE North America the dedication of the Salt City Solar Project.

The project houses 126,000 solar panels, producing enough clean energy to power more than 14,500 homes. Economically the project has created around 250 jobs during construction and two long-term local jobs to operate and maintain the facility. Lease payments are being paid to landowners and $13 million in new tax revenue over the facility’s operating life has been created. These taxes will benefit the county, township and school district.

Before the ribbon cutting at the project site officials, landowners and workers gathered to discuss the project and enjoy a lunch at the Kinnikinnick Fen Nature Preserve. During this time ENGIE’s lead developer for the project, Ryan Economy, thanked all those who have worked on the project.

"We can't wait to be part of the neighborhood and part of the community," said Economy.

Groups were then bussed to the project site where they were able to learn more about the panels and how the site will operate. The panels are equipped with sensors that allow them to auto-rotate and follow the sun to collect the most energy. The sensors can also sense rain, snow and high winds and move the panels to the best position.

During the lifespan of the solar farm, which is around 30 to 35 years, the panels will offset hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil. The land will also receive a much-needed break having received a reseeding of native plants that will help replenish the ground and provide food for pollinators. The shrubs planted along the site will provide shelter for local animals and a visual barrier around the project for drivers.

Tyler Wertman, superintendent of Zane Trace Schools, said the project and the taxes it generates will be beneficial to the school and that he is "very excited" about the partnership. Ross County Commissioner Dwight Garrett agreed saying the celebration was a "proud moment" that has been a long time coming.

Shelby Reeves is a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette. You can email her at SReeves@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @Shelby_Reeves_

This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Ribbon cutting celebrates the Salt City Solar Project completion