Arevon Energy, Inc., a leading U.S. energy developer, owner, and operator, has marked a major milestone with a ceremony celebrating construction progress at the 124 MWdc Big Muddy Solar Project in Jackson County, Illinois. Once completed, the project will generate enough clean, domestic electricity to power more than 24,000 homes, with commercial operation expected by the end of 2026.
Developed, owned, and operated by Arevon, the project represents nearly US$200 million in private investment and is Arevon’s first utility-scale solar development in the state. Formerly known as Campbell Solar, the project was renamed Big Muddy Solar in recognition of the river that flows through Jackson County, and its new logo features an outline of Murphysboro’s well-known Big Muddy Monster as a tribute to local identity and heritage.
The Big Muddy Solar Project will play an important role in meeting America’s growing demand for affordable, reliable clean energy while also delivering long-term economic benefits to the region. Over its lifetime, the project is expected to generate more than US$12.6 million in property tax revenue, supporting local schools, public safety services, and community infrastructure.
Arevon has partnered with Signal Energy for construction, which will employ more than 250 workers, including members of local labor organizations such as IBEW Local 702, IUOE Local 318, and the Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 773. As construction continues, additional spending at local hotels, restaurants, shops, and service providers will further support the Jackson County economy. The project is backed by a long-term virtual power purchase agreement with an American multinational technology company.
Environmental stewardship is central to Arevon’s development approach, and Big Muddy Solar reflects this commitment. Alongside generating secure, homegrown renewable energy, the project will convert the land beneath and around its panels into a pollinator-friendly habitat, promoting healthy soil and supporting essential pollinator species. This dual-use approach enhances local biodiversity while ensuring responsible, sustainable project operations.
Arevon hosted a milestone event on November 18 to commemorate construction progress and recognize the company’s substantial investment in Jackson County’s energy future. The event brought together public officials, community leaders, business representatives, landowners, and other partners. Speakers included Arevon CEO Kevin Smith, Jackson County Board Chairman C.J. Calandro, Murphysboro Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Dawn McClerren, Regional Superintendent of Schools Matthew Hickam, Jackson Growth Alliance Chairman Brian Chapman, and Illinois State Police Special Agent Justin Haney, who also serves as Coordinator for the Team Illinois Youth Police Camp. Arevon Development Manager Jemma King served as the Master of Ceremonies.
Kevin Smith emphasized the project’s long-term value for the community, noting that Big Muddy Solar will deliver reliable clean energy while creating economic opportunities through jobs, tax revenue, and community partnerships. Dawn McClerren expressed appreciation for Arevon’s ongoing reinvestment in Jackson County, highlighting the benefits for families, schools, and local organizations.
As the long-term owner and operator of Big Muddy Solar, Arevon is committed to supporting community development throughout the life of the project. The company focuses its giving efforts on education, food and housing security, and public health and safety. In Jackson County, Arevon has already partnered with numerous organizations, including the Elverado and Murphysboro Education Foundations, Junior Achievement, Future Farmers of America, the 4-H Council, the Southern Illinois University Carbondale STEM Education Research Center, SPARK 618, Victory Dream Center, Murphysboro Food Pantry, 724 Ministries, Carbondale Warming Center, Revitalize 62966, local volunteer fire departments, the Jackson County Ambulance Service, and the Perry-Jackson Child Advocacy Center.
Local partners praised the company’s support, with leaders noting that Arevon’s contributions are helping expand STEM education opportunities, strengthen youth programs, and address urgent food insecurity across the region. Arevon is continuing to grow its renewable energy portfolio across the Midwest. The company recently began operations at its Ratts 1 and Heirloom Solar projects in Indiana, representing a combined investment of US$400 million and 264 MWdc of new solar capacity. It is also constructing the US$500 million, 430 MWdc Kelso Solar Project in Missouri.
In addition, Arevon developed and managed construction of the 251 MWdc Gibson Solar Project for NIPSCO and the 228 MWdc Posey Solar Project for Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company, ensuring successful integration of each project into its respective community. Arevon continues to advance development of additional renewable energy facilities throughout the region, strengthening the supply of clean energy and supporting long-term economic growth.
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