Ohio is stepping into the spotlight as a leader in renewable energy, with massive solar projects like the Union Solar Farm and Fox Squirrel Solar Farm driving a clean energy revolution. These projects are not just about sustainability—they’re transforming local economies and communities in ways that go beyond the environment.
Union Solar Farm: Powering 62,000 Homes and Building Local Roots
Located near Marysville in central Ohio, Union Solar Farm is a prime example of how renewable energy can fuel both economic and environmental progress. Spanning 22 square miles with over 760,000 solar panels, this 325 MW facility generates enough energy to power approximately 62,000 homes every year.
But the impact doesn’t stop at clean energy. During its construction, the farm created over 370 jobs, with nearly 80% of those positions filled by Ohio residents. Now in its operational phase, the facility supports 20 permanent jobs, contributing to the local economy in a meaningful way.
ACCIONA Energía, the company behind the project, has also implemented a Social Impact Management program, reinvesting a portion of the farm’s earnings into community development initiatives aimed at improving residents’ quality of life. From job creation to community engagement, Union Solar Farm is a testament to how renewable energy can spark widespread benefits.
Fox Squirrel Solar: Ohio’s Largest Solar Farm Changing the Game
Just west of Columbus in Madison County, the Fox Squirrel Solar Farm takes Ohio’s renewable energy efforts to new heights. At 577 MW, it stands as the state’s largest solar project, featuring 1.4 million solar panels and 159 inverters spread across an expansive landscape. This clean energy giant produces enough electricity to power 118,000 homes annually.
The numbers behind the project are impressive. Construction spanned three phases, with the final phase completed in late 2024. At its peak, Fox Squirrel employed 650 workers who collectively logged 1.5 million hours on the job. Like Union Solar, the energy generated here supports Amazon’s sustainability goals through a long-term power purchase agreement.
Beyond energy production, Fox Squirrel Solar highlights the importance of community investment. EDF Renewables, in partnership with Canadian energy company Enbridge, has focused on creating local opportunities and fostering environmental stewardship. Senior Vice President Kate O’Hair underscored the millions invested into the area and the long-term benefits the farm brings to local communities.
Ohio’s Bright Renewable Future
Ohio is just getting started. With the Oak Run Solar Project set to launch later this year at an impressive 800 MW, the state is on track to outdo even its own ambitious renewable energy milestones. Currently ranked 13th in the nation for solar capacity, Ohio plans to leap to 8th place within the next five years, adding 9,574 MW of capacity to its grid.
These projects underscore a powerful shift: sustainability and economic development can go hand in hand. With corporate giants like Amazon driving demand for clean energy through long-term agreements, Ohio is positioning itself as a national hub for renewable energy innovation.