News Summary
Leeward Renewable Energy has launched its Ridgely Solar project in Lake County, Tennessee. This facility has a capacity of 177 megawatts and created around 700 jobs during construction. With expected property tax revenue of $3 million, the project supports local schools and public services. Additionally, it funds educational scholarships and has contributed to local safety initiatives. Collaborations with U.S.-based companies enhance the project’s operations, emphasizing economic growth and sustainability in Tennessee’s renewable energy landscape.
Tennessee Welcomes New Solar Energy Facility
Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE) has officially launched commercial operations at its Ridgely Solar project in Lake County, Tennessee. This facility boasts a capacity of 177 megawatts (MW) and represents LRE’s first operating asset in the state. The Ridgely Solar project supplies power under a long-term agreement with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which is committed to delivering reliable and clean energy tailored to meet the demands of the region.
Expected to generate approximately $3 million in property tax revenue over its lifetime, the facility also created around 700 jobs during its construction phase. Revenue generated from the project will contribute significantly to supporting local schools and public services in Lake County. This initiative mirrors the larger trend of renewable energy projects promoting local economic growth and community wellbeing.
Community Contributions and Initiatives
The Ridgely Solar project is designed not just as a power generation facility but also as a community asset. The project supports several initiatives aimed at fostering education and safety among residents. For instance, funds from Ridgely Solar have been allocated towards scholarships through the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Northwest. Furthermore, the solar facility has played an instrumental role in constructing an inclusive playground for children with disabilities, highlighting its commitment to community welfare.
In addition to educational initiatives, the project has collaborated with the American Red Cross Mid-South to aid in local flood relief efforts. Improvements have also been made to public safety infrastructure, ensuring better support for first responders in the area. Additionally, the project has provided necessary resources to The Nest, a daycare at Margaret Newton Elementary, which offers free childcare to local families.
Technological Innovations and Local Partnerships
The engineering team at LRE worked hand in hand with U.S.-based companies such as Nextracker and First Solar to enhance the project’s operation. Nextracker supplied terrain-following solar tracker systems called NX Horizon-XTR™, ensuring optimal energy capture throughout the day. Meanwhile, First Solar contributed advanced thin-film photovoltaic modules that enhance the system’s performance and reliability, reinforcing LRE’s commitment to U.S.-made innovation in resilient energy infrastructure.
Significance of the Project
The launch of the Ridgely Solar project underscores the importance of energy reliability and investment in community resources. LRE’s operations prioritize domestic job creation, partnerships with local entities, and environmental sustainability, which are critical components for fostering a sustainable energy future in Tennessee. The project’s economic and community-centered contributions are noteworthy and set a precedent for similar future initiatives.
Company Background
LRE, established in 2003, has grown to manage over 30 wind, solar, and energy storage projects totaling more than 4 gigawatts (GW) across the United States. The company emphasizes the need for local partnerships and effective environmental stewardship in its operations. With the launch of the Ridgely Solar project, LRE reaffirms its vision of combining renewable energy advancements with significant community and economic benefits.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Business Wire: LRE Brings First Tennessee Solar Project Online
- Google Search: Tennessee Solar Project
- Renewables Now: Commercial Ops Start at Leeward’s 177 MW Solar Site in Tennessee
- Wikipedia: Solar Energy
- Eagle Tribune: LRE Brings First Tennessee Solar Project Online
- Google Scholar: Tennessee Solar Energy
- Bastille Post: LRE Brings First Tennessee Solar Project Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Solar Energy
- BDT Online: LRE Brings First Tennessee Solar Project Online
- Google News: Tennessee Solar Project
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
