Construction Begins on 30-Acre Grinnell Solar Energy Farm
Power Generated Will Serve Grinnell College Campus, Facilities
GRINNELL, IOWA – Ground will be broken this month on Iowa’s latest renewable energy project, a $7 million dollar, 30-acre solar field that will provide clean power to Grinnell College.
Developed by Trusted Energy of Storm Lake, the project launches a 20-year power-purchase agreement with the College, saving an estimated $3 million in energy costs over that time. It will also reduce the school’s carbon footprint by 18%.
The solar farm will feature more than 10,000 panels located on land just north of the campus and will generate four megawatts of power, enough to meet 30% of the College’s growing energy needs.
“This is an exciting day for Trusted Energy,” said CEO Rob Hach. “We have been working with the College, local leaders and investors for more than four years. This project opens the door to many more solar installations in a region already known for its wind energy.”
Hach said workers are now able to get into the ground and begin running trenches between the site and the campus. He added the site should be fully functional by the end of the year.
Another benefit of the site plan may be the incorporation of deep-rooted perennial grasses and pollinators and the use of the 14-acres for grazing. A local rancher could use the solar field as grazing land for sheep and Hach said that would enhance the appearance and productivity beyond simply energy generation.
For more information, contact Andrea Easter at andreae@trustednrg.com or 712.330.0765