Harnessing the Sun: FirstEnergy's New Solar Site in Marion County

FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) subsidiaries Mon Power and Potomac Edison have completed their second utility-scale solar site in West Virginia, located in Rivesville, Marion County. This 5.5-megawatt facility features nearly 14,000 solar panels on 27 acres of company-owned property, contributing to the state's goal of 200 megawatts of solar capacity.


The project is part of a larger initiative to develop 50 megawatts of solar generation across five sites, supporting West Virginia's renewable energy targets. The companies have also introduced a Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, allowing customers to purchase credits at 4 cents per kilowatt hour. Notable subscribers include the National Energy Technology Laboratory and the town of Harpers Ferry. This initiative aims to boost economic development by attracting companies requiring renewable energy sources.

The solar site's location on a former coal ash disposal site offers both environmental and economic benefits. Transforming the brownfield into a source of clean, renewable energy reduces the environmental impact and encourages local economic growth. The company is using union laborers for construction, further stimulating the local economy.


The expected return on investment for the solar site includes energy production, SREC sales, and incentives. The project is expected to generate approximately 5.5 megawatts of renewable power, enough to power around 173 homes. The SREC program provides an additional revenue stream, with customers purchasing credits at 4 cents per kilowatt hour. Incentives, such as tax credits and grants, can also contribute to the project's financial viability.

The presence of the solar site and the growing demand for renewable energy have the potential for future economic development in the region. The company plans to build two future solar arrays in Tucker County and another in Hancock, adding about 20 more megawatts of renewable power generation capability. This could draw economic development interest from companies that meet renewable power use requirements.

The Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program contributes to economic development in West Virginia by attracting companies requiring renewable energy sources. The program allows customers to purchase credits, supporting the growth of renewable energy projects and stimulating local economies.

The construction and operation of these solar sites can create job opportunities and local economic benefits. The use of union labor for construction and the potential for long-term maintenance and operation jobs can contribute to the local economy. Additionally, the projects influence West Virginia's energy independence and long-term economic growth by diversifying the state's energy portfolio and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

The success of these solar sites in West Virginia opens the door for further investment in renewable energy projects. As the demand for clean energy grows, investors may be more inclined to support additional projects, driving innovation and economic growth in the region.