OPSB approves first solar-powered electric generation facility on reclaimed coal mine land

On August 18, 2022, the Ohio Power Siting Board (“OPSB”) approved the first solar-powered electric generation facility to be located on a reclaimed coal surface mine in Harrison County, Ohio. Nottingham Solar, LLC will convert largely unusable land in Athens Township into a renewable energy project that will provide economic benefits and jobs within Harrison County. Located approximately 2.5 miles from downtown Flushing, the project area will occupy approximately 1,200 acres of privately owned parcels where Nottingham has secured long-term leases with landowners. The solar generation facility will encompass approximately 580 acres of the total project area. Electricity generated by the project will be transferred to the transmission grid operated by PJM Interconnection, LLC (“PJM”) for sale at wholesale to the grid or under a power purchase agreement. This first-of-its-kind project provides the perfect opportunity for the beneficial reuse of land and economic benefit to the local community. The project is expected to create approximately 290 on-site jobs during construction. Once Nottingham Solar is operational, it is expected to create 19 long-term jobs. More information regarding the project schedule and updates and can be found here.