PENROD, KY- Members of the Penrod, Dunmore, and Muhlenberg County community gathered on Tuesday night at Penrod Missionary Baptist Church for what they hoped would be answered questions. Three weeks ago, officials with Lost City Solar announced their intent to place a 250 megawatt solar farm on 1300 private acres south of Penrod, KY. The initial announcement took many by surprise in the community. Officials with Lost City Renewables anticipate the project to cost $300-$400 million dollars and generate 250 megawatts when running. Meeting, answering questions, and getting to know folks was the intent of the event Tuesday evening.
Sean Joshi Lead Developer with Lost City Renewables explains what the need is that drove them to this development. Joshi stated TVA's need to replace lost generation led to the proposal.
Joshi said that TVA would be able to purchase the power produced by the solar farm through a contract. He stated as of right now, there is NOT a contract in place. The contract will assure that this project is viable once officials are able to set down with TVA.
Sean explains the process by which company representatives used to determine where to place the solar farm. He states, the ability to "handle" the electricity produced by the farm was one of the deciding factors in choosing the site. Joshi said that company officials "tried to contact land owners", but eventually was able to settle on the Penrod sight due in part to the willingness of the current land owner.
Many residents that live along the proposed site have expressed concern over visibility, buffers, and other means of "hiding" the solar panels. Joshi states that buffers will be used on this project to protect views as well as wildlife. The buffers, he said, would rely on Evergreen trees along with native plant and tree species.
Sean Joshi with Lost City Renewables explains job creation will come with the solar farm both during construction and after. These jobs will consist of various trades and will be high paying in nature.
Construction of the $300-$400 million dollar solar farm is still a ways away. Joshi stated once a contract is in place and TVA (owners of the transmission lines) is in a position to accept the 250 megawatts, construction will start.
Sean expects generation to commence in 2028. He stated, the process is long and many factors are involved. Kentucky's PSC has yet to sign off on the project.
Photos from the informational event:
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