Knox-based Hoosier Solar successfully permitted 410 megawatts of solar energy projects in Starke County.
The two project sites, North Bend and Starke Central, are east of Bass Lake and northeast of Knox. The projects encompass over 2,500 acres between the solar farms and include 16 participating landowners and 21 participating neighbors. The solar projects have the combined capacity to power over 53,000 nearby homes.
Through the Economic Development Agreements, the solar farms will bring over $1 million in economic benefits to Starke County annually. Hoosier Solar has included an additional $150,000 to support emergency services as the county sees fit. The economic impact analyses for these projects forecast lower property taxes for the community by $285,500 annually.
Starke County landowners participating in the Hoosier Solar projects voiced their enthusiasm for the solar farms. They said the projects will bring long-term benefits to their properties, families and the wider community.
“Our family has been farming in this community for generations,” Linda Bell said in a press release. “My husband and I not only wanted to create a pathway to keep our land in the family for the next generation, but we also believe in the benefits to the greater community that solar technology can provide now and into the future.”
Mike Pacilio grew up in Starke County. Pacilio said Hoosier Solar’s projects will significantly benefit the community.
“I am excited that my land will contribute to strengthening our local economy and powering our homes with reliable renewable energy,” Pacilio said.
Hoosier Solar CEO Steven Lichtin expressed enthusiasm for the two solar farm projects.
“Our Starke County projects will generate positive economic impact that will benefit the entire county and will deliver clean, American-made energy into Indiana’s rapidly expanding grid,” Lichtin said. “We look forward to continuing to act as good neighbors and are grateful for the support our projects have received from residents and county officials.”
