Representative Stein Highlights Groundbreaking on Historic Solar Project
State Rep. Dick Stein (R-Norwalk) announced that Speaker Larry Householder, along with state and energy industry leaders, gathered for the groundbreaking of what will be one of the largest solar projects in Ohio history.
The groundbreaking kicked off construction on the 200 MW Hillcrest Solar facility which, when completed, will power approximately 39,000 homes. It is Ohio’s first utility-scale solar project.
“As a cosponsor of House Bill 6 that passed and became law last year, it’s great to see this project become a reality,” said Stein. “It’s important that we continue promoting energy diversity across the state of Ohio.”
Hillcrest Solar is one of six solar projects eligible for state financial assistance through House Bill 6, which was signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine in July 2019.
House Bill 6 will save Ohio’s electric ratepayers at least $1.3 billion by removing expensive, failed electric mandates currently on customers’ bills. The legislation also supports Ohio jobs and expands renewable energy generation in Ohio.
Innergex Renewable Energy, a Canada-based renewable power producer, owns and operates the Hillcrest Solar facility and will oversee its construction. The Hillcrest facility will cover approximately 1,350 acres of land near the Brown County community of Mt. Orab, 43 miles east of Cincinnati.