Paducah, Kentucky, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Paducah, Kentucky, is set to launch its first solar facility, McCracken Solar, with a capacity of 60 megawatts. The $130 million project aims to power 10,000 homes annually, create 150 jobs, and foster community growth through local investments. With 156,000 solar panels spread across 615 acres, the facility is projected to be operational by 2028, enhancing the region’s commitment to renewable energy and economic growth.
Paducah, Kentucky, is preparing to launch its first solar facility, significantly boosting the region’s clean energy production. The project, named McCracken Solar, will have a planned capacity of 60 megawatts thanks to a substantial investment of $130 million from AES Corporation and Community Energy.
The solar farm will consist of 156,000 solar panels installed over 615 acres of privately owned land. Once operational in 2028, the facility is expected to produce enough energy to power approximately 10,000 homes each year. This initiative aims to help integrate renewable energy into the local electricity grid, with power generated at the solar facility to be sold to Big Rivers Electric Corp.
During its construction, which is scheduled to commence in 2027, McCracken Solar is projected to create around 150 jobs at peak. The project is also expected to generate about $7 million in tax revenue for McCracken County and the State of Kentucky over its operational lifespan.
AES Corporation also intends to foster community growth through investments in local education and nonprofit initiatives in Western Kentucky as part of this project. Additionally, the solar farm development allows local landowners to enhance their income while maintaining ownership of their properties.
Mayor George Bray has noted that this project will not only drive economic growth but also demonstrate the community’s commitment to renewable energy. The initiative seeks to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, thereby improving air quality and ensuring a healthier environment for Paducah residents.
To ensure environmental responsibility, AES Corporation has established a decommissioning plan. This plan aims to restore the solar site to its original condition following the facility’s operational life, which may extend up to 40 years.
Further, local zoning adjustments will be made to ensure that the solar project aligns with McCracken County’s landscape and existing power generation commitments. In conjunction with this development, the Tennessee Valley Authority is also spearheading Project Phoenix, another solar project projected to commence operations in 2028, which will contribute additional renewable energy capacity in the area.
Key Features of McCracken Solar
- Investment: $130 million
- Capacity: 60 megawatts
- Number of Solar Panels: 156,000
- Acreage: 615 acres
- Estimated Jobs Created: 150
- Tax Revenue Projections: $7 million
- Powering Homes: Approximately 10,000 homes annually
- Start of Construction: 2027
- Operational Date: 2028
- Decommissioning Timeline: Up to 40 years
FAQs
What is McCracken Solar?
McCracken Solar is Paducah, Kentucky’s first solar facility, planned to generate clean energy with a capacity of 60 megawatts.
When will construction begin?
Construction for the McCracken Solar facility is scheduled to begin in 2027.
What is the expected operational year of the facility?
The facility is expected to be operational by 2028.
How many homes will it power?
Once operational, McCracken Solar is anticipated to provide electricity to approximately 10,000 homes annually.
What is the total investment in the project?
The total investment for the McCracken Solar project is $130 million.
Will there be job opportunities?
Yes, the project is expected to create around 150 jobs during its peak construction phase.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Cool Down: Paducah Solar Facility
- Kentucky.com: McCracken Solar Facility
- Lane Report: 60 MW Solar Power Facility
- WPSD Local 6: Solar Facility in McCracken County
- Wikipedia: Solar Energy
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