About The Project
Current Efforts
Invenergy first began development of the Fairbanks Solar project in 2017. The project is currently under construction with completion expected in Spring 2025.
Through the development process, Invenergy conducted a series of environmental and social studies:
- Site Characterization Study Report
- Wetland and Waterbody Delineation Report
- Pre-Construction Raptor Nest Survey Report
- Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ASTM Practice E2247-16)
- Cultural Resources Due Diligence Report
- Economic Impact and Land Use Analysis Report
- Design Level Geotechnical Engineering Report
Economic Benefits
During the life of the project, Fairbanks Solar is projected to contribute over $125 million in property taxes, lease payments to landowners, salaries to employees, and payments for local goods and services, resulting in a significant increase in economic activity in the Sullivan County area.
Why Indiana?
Indiana has the potential to grow its solar industry in the near future. Over the next five years, an estimated 9,000 MW of solar are expected to come onto the grid, the fifth largest growth rate in the nation. The cost of solar energy in Indiana has declined by 43% over the last 10 years, making it competitive with other energy sources while keeping electric rates affordable. Indiana's growing solar industry also contributes greatly to the state's economy. In fact, the solar industry is valued at an estimated $2 billion.
Why Sullivan County?
The Fairbanks Solar project is an exciting development opportunity for Sullivan County, with millions to be invested in the local economy over the life of the project. We selected Sullivan County for this project after thorough and careful evaluation due to the:
- Verified, consistent strong solar resource
- Existing transmission lines limiting the need for new infrastructure
- Interested private landowners
- Low environmental impact risk
We take our commitments to our local host communities seriously and look forward to continuing to work closely with Sullivan County, contributing to the area's economic development, and providing an additional supply of clean, homegrown energy in Indiana.
Environmental Benefits
The Fairbanks Solar Energy Center will produce up 250 megawatts of solar power. Emissions-free energy sources mean cleaner air and water in Indiana. We work with state and federal agencies and other interested stakeholders to site, build, and operate our facilities responsibly, avoiding and minimizing impacts to wildlife.
As one of the first solar developers and operators in the U.S. with a dedicated vegetation management team, Invenergy develops project-specific vegetation plans for every solar site we build. Our vegetation plans ensure healthy topsoil and vegetative communities during the lifespan of the project.
Impact on County Roads
All County roads and infrastructure will be left in the same or better condition than they were prior to their use for the construction or on-going maintenance and repair of a solar energy project, and such repairs will be completed at no cost to Sullivan County.