Learning Center

What is a Solar Project?

A solar project is a large group of solar panels installed on the ground that operate together as a power plant. Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic panels, or “PV”, generate electricity from sunlight. Many solar panels are installed on the roofs of houses and other buildings, directly powering just those buildings. A solar project, however, delivers large amounts of electricity to the existing high-voltage transmission system, which serves the entire region. The solar panels in many solar projects are fixed in a position tilted toward the sun (in North America, this is to the south). The low end of these panels is usually a few feet off the ground and the high end typically is about 10 feet off the ground. In some solar farms, the panels rotate slowly from east to west throughout the day, tracking the path of the sun.

Learn more about the sequence of developing a solar project from Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy, a nationwide network of 1,300 chambers of commerce and economic development organizations. Created and led by chamber executives, CICE works with these associations to amplify and advance the clean energy economy, while highlighting business leadership in the areas of clean energy, climate action, and resilience.

How Do Solar Projects Benefit the Surrounding Community and Region?

Utility scale solar has a unique opportunity at this moment in time to benefit the Ohio economy. The pipeline of utility scale solar projects in Ohio is substantial and will bring billions of dollars in capital investment to the state in the coming years. Furthermore, utility scale solar will bring thousands of jobs, stability for farmers, much needed revenue for rural communities, and of course- clean energy for Ohio residents. Learn from a panel of experts just how much Ohio will benefit from new solar energy projects.

How Long Do Solar Projects Last? How Is a Solar Project Removed?

Solar projects operate for 30 to 40 years. At the end of that period, a landowner hosting one may want to reach a new arrangement under which the solar farm is “repowered” with newer technology, or the landowner may choose to have the solar farm removed. Solar farms require little or no concrete and so are relatively easy to remove at the end of the useful life of the equipment. (Anything below a depth of 3 feet usually is left in place because it will not impede other uses.) After a solar farm is removed, the land can be returned to its prior use, such as farming.

Learn More About Solar on Agricultural Land

Learn More About Research Regarding Solar Recycling

Learn More About “The True Land Footprint of Solar Energy”

Is Solar Safe?

Solar modules have been in use for decades and are a safe, mature technology. Solar has been deployed on homes, schools, hospitals, and farms around the country. The modules have a 25-year production guarantee and are expected to last 40 years.

Learn More About the Health and Safety of Solar Facilities

Ohio Department of Health Assessment of Solar