'Critical' for survival: Wildlife group applauds central Ohio energy project

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio (WCMH) — A new solar facility that previously received community pushback has been approved in Knox County, promising money for schools and services, hundreds of jobs, and sheep grazing.

Open Road Renewables has announced that the Ohio Power Siting Board has approved the Frasier Solar project. In a news release, the renewable energy developer noted the project will be in Clinton and Miller townships and the City of Mount Vernon in Knox County and will meet Ohio's growing energy demand by providing 120 megawatts of power.

The solar farm will generate employment in multiple ways. More than 200 construction positions will need to be filled to build the project on about 800 acres. When running, three to five long-term employees will assist with its operation. Additionally, jobs for local sheep farmers will be created to graze their flocks, which will reduce vegetation that interferes with the solar modules' energy collection.

The project was also made possible by a PILOT agreement with the Knox County Board of Commissioners, which allows Knox County to receive payments in lieu of taxes. The county is expected to acquire up to $42.8 million in revenue over 40 years. A major portion of the money, around 45.2%, would be collected by the Mount Vernon City School District, up to $19.4 million. The county's general fund is slated to secure 26.5% of the money, or up to $11.4 million.

“We’re thrilled that Frasier Solar has received approval and is moving forward in Knox County,”
said Craig Adair, Vice President of Development at Open Road Renewables. “From new jobs to stable income for local farmers to millions in new revenue for Mount Vernon schools and county services, we’re proud to be a part of Knox County’s future and excited to help meet Ohio’s rapidly growing energy needs with reliable, homegrown power.”

In May 2024, neighbors concerned about the project spoke out at a public hearing. Many objected to using farmland to generate solar energy. However, Open Road Renewables pointed to a “misinformation campaign” by a “propaganda organization,” as responsible for the opposition to the project.

“We commend the OSPB for its rigorous evaluation of this project on its merits in the midst of an aggressive campaign carried out by shadowy corporate interests to spread vast amounts of misinformation about solar development in Knox County. Fortunately, the truth has prevailed,” said Adair.

Additionally, the company noted on its website that poured concrete is not part of the installation process of the solar modules and existing drainage will be maintained, allowing the land to be returned to “its original, agricultural condition upon completion of the project,” after 40 years.

Senior Policy Director for Audubon Great Lakes, a regional office of Audubon, Marnie Urso issued a statement in favor of the project.

“Today, in a long-awaited decision, the Ohio Power Siting Board approved the Frasier Solar Project, an important step towards addressing climate change for the benefit of birds and communities,” said Urso. “Birds face unprecedented threats from climate change, and two-thirds of North American bird species could face unlivable conditions across their current range. A shift to responsible renewable energy is critical for birds’ long-term survival, and our own.”

Collaboration with wildlife experts will help ensure that renewable energy projects achieve their full potential while minimizing impacts on critical bird habitats. We’re pleased to see that the project is moving forward, and we will continue to monitor its progress to keep the best interest of birds front and center.” 

In March, Open Road Renewables’ announced another solar project near Indian Lake would not be going forward due to opposition, withdrawing its application for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need from the OPSB. In a news release, Doug Herling, Vice President of Open Road Renewables said the Grange Solar Grazing Center, “would have brought jobs, wages, and millions of dollars in annual tax revenue to fund local schools and county and township services.”