Invenergy has commenced operations at the 250MW Hardin III Solar Energy Center in Ohio, the developer’s third utility-scale solar project in Hardin County.
WEC Energy Group is the majority owner of the project, while Microsoft will purchase the electricity and renewable energy credits under a power purchase agreement.
“Hardin III Solar is the culmination of a decade-long collaboration with Hardin County and the local community,” said Michael Kaplan, senior vice president of development at Invenergy.
The project is expected to generate $180m in local investment and created over 350 construction jobs. Four permanent roles will support long-term operations and maintenance.
Invenergy Services will manage the facility under a long-term O&M agreement.
Hardin III uses American-made solar panels produced by Illuminate USA, a manufacturer majority-owned by Invenergy. Since 2023, Illuminate has produced more than nine million panels and created over 1,500 jobs in Ohio.