thoroughbred solar
Hart County, Kentucky
Project Overview
Thoroughbred Solar, LLC (“Thoroughbred”) is working on the development of a 50-megawatt (MW) solar facility located on approximately 530 acres of contiguous farmland near the town of Rowletts in Hart County, Kentucky. The project will connect to the existing 69kV Eastern Kentucky Power Cooperative transmission line.
Thoroughbred Solar is expected to operate for 30+ years, providing significant economic investment to the community, a substantial property tax base for Hart County and schools, and generate emission-free renewable energy. As Thoroughbred Solar completes development, construction is scheduled to start in 2025, bringing an influx of new jobs to the community. The project is expected to begin operating in 2026.
Project location
Resources
Thoroughbred Solar Project Fact Sheet Download Here
Timeline
About Us
Thoroughbred Solar, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC, a leading renewable energy producer dedicated to sustainably powering the future. Leeward currently owns and operates 24 renewable energy facilities across nine states, totaling more than 2,500 MW of installed capacity.
Leeward is a portfolio company of OMERS infrastructure, a preeminent global infrastructure investment arm of OMERs, one of Canada’s largest defined benefit pension plans with over C$121 billion in net assets (as of December 31, 2021).
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
As a dedicated member of the communities we call home, we work hard to earn the trust of our neighbors.
Our involvement goes well beyond job creation, economic investment, and providing renewable energy. We strive to build lasting partnerships with civic leaders and property owners. Throughout the life of every project, we pride ourselves on being transparent in our communication and highly responsive to public feedback.
And most importantly, we believe being involved means giving back. We get to know our neighbors and love supporting the local causes they are passionate about. Whether through employee volunteer opportunities or corporate-level sponsorships, we are always looking for positive ways to stay actively engaged with our communities.
Responsible Development
Responsible development is an ethos that runs deep at Leeward and our subsidiary companies. We develop, own, and operate renewable generation assets for the long term, and are committed to leaving a positive impact on the communities where we operate. We achieve this by prioritizing our values of community partnership, sustainability, and safety.
CLICK HERE for more information about Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC.
Solar frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What will the solar facility look like?
Thoroughbred Solar will primarily consist of rows of photovoltaic electric generating modules mounted to steel frames that are installed on driven steel posts with central inverters spaced throughout the site. The entire perimeter of the Project site will be fenced for security and safety. Vegetative screening will be implemented at various locations to enhance the visual appeal of the site.
How does photovoltaic solar technology work?
Photovoltaic (PV) modules capture energy from the sun and produce direct current (DC) electricity. The DC electricity flows to electrical inverters where it is converted to alternating current (AC) electricity. The AC electricity is then combined and transformed to the electrical grid’s voltage at the project substation, where it connects to the utility’s system and is sold to the market.
Will the solar facility produce glare or noise?
No. Photovoltaic modules are designed to absorb sunlight, not reflect it. The amount of sunlight the modules absorb correlates directly to the amount of electricity produced, thus modules are designed to absorb maximum amounts of sunlight and minimize reflection. In fact, typical solar module glass is constructed with anti-reflective coatings. Solar facilities produce minimal noise as they do not contain large mechanical components. We design our facilities so that any increase in noise from operation is negligible at neighboring properties.
What is the Kentucky State permitting process?
The renewable facility permitting process in Kentucky is run through the Kentucky State Electric Generation and Transmission Siting Board. A Siting Board permit is required prior to a company constructing and operating a solar project in the state. The permit application for Thoroughbred was filed in Summer of 2022. As part of the permitting application Thoroughbred Solar will be required to submit a number of studies regarding the project.
How long will the solar facility be operational?
The average life of a solar facility is approximately 30-40 years.
Who will maintain the property and vegetation?
Thoroughbred Solar will be responsible for maintaining the property. We work diligently with consultants and local stakeholders to ensure proper ground cover, erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management occurs on the site. We also implement vegetation management plans and construction best management practices to promote the establishment of native vegetation and manage overgrowth and invasive plant species.
What happens at the end of the Project’s life?
At the end of the life of the Project, Thoroughbred Solar will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site to its original use. As part of the permitting process, the Siting Board will review Thoroughbred’s proposed decommissioning plan to ensure ample consideration and funding are secured.
How will the project benefit my community?
The Project will bring a large direct investment to the community including significant property taxes and will provide more clean energy to Kentucky. Construction of the solar project will also bring approximately 140 construction jobs, and local business generated from the purchase of food, fuel, accommodations, and other local supplies.
How will construction impact my community?
During the construction period there will be a relatively short-term increase in traffic volume and noise, typical of similar projects. Once the Project is operational, daily traffic to and from the site will be minimal. Throughout the life of the Project, it will not burden Hart County services and utilities.
Contact
For more detailed information about this project, please call us at (800) 342-9853, email info@thoroughbredsolar.com, or fill out and submit the form below.
