The Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) has granted approval for Oak Run Solar, marking it as the largest solar power generation facility authorized in Ohio to date. With plans for 800 megawatts of solar generation and a 300 megawatt battery energy storage system, the project signifies a significant stride towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the state.
The Ohio Environmental Council (OEC), an intervening party in the case, played a crucial role in advocating for Oak Run Solar’s approval. Expert testimony from Dr. Jeffrey Reutter, retired director of The Ohio State University’s Ohio Sea Grant College Program and Stone Lab, emphasized the project’s benefits in mitigating climate change and addressing harmful stormwater runoff. Dr. Reutter estimated that nutrient and soil runoff would be reduced by 50% due to planned vegetation management practices at the project site.
Notably, Oak Run Solar represents the largest agrivoltaic project in Ohio’s history, integrating commercial crop cultivation across 6,000 acres within the solar panel rows. This innovative approach not only advances energy production but also fosters agricultural innovation.
Nolan Rutschilling, OEC Managing Director of Energy Policy, commended the OPSB’s decision, highlighting its significance for clean renewable energy in Ohio. Rutschilling emphasized Oak Run Solar’s role in tackling climate change and promoting agricultural sustainability in the state. He underscored the importance of utility-scale solar and battery energy storage in Ohio’s transition to a cleaner energy future, especially amidst climate disruptions affecting agricultural practices.
The approval of Oak Run Solar signifies Ohio’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, promising to bring transformative energy and agricultural solutions to the state
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