Walnut Township’s Future Glows: 220MW Solar Project Gets Official Green Light

A massive solar energy project is taking shape in Fairfield County, Ohio. The Eastern Cottontail Solar Project received official approval in early 2025, marking a significant development for Walnut Township. Developed by EDF Renewables, the facility will generate 220 megawatts of clean electricity once completed.

The project will span up to 1,550 acres, with the main facility covering about 898 acres. Solar panels, tracking systems, inverters, and a collection substation will form the core infrastructure. Additional components include access roads, transmission lines, and transformers to deliver power to the regional grid.

Safety measures feature prominently in the design. A seven-foot-tall fence will surround the facility with gated entrances for controlled access. The project maintains substantial setbacks from neighboring properties: 300 feet from non-participating homes, 150 feet from roads, and 50 feet from property boundaries.

Environmental impacts appear minimal according to industry standards. The solar modules produce no air pollution during operation and create very little noise. This project aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon footprint across North America. The company’s focus on environmental responsibility is evident in every aspect of the project design. Low-profile arrays and buffer vegetation will help reduce visual impact on the surrounding community.

Local economic benefits include construction jobs and ongoing operations positions. This development joins the rapidly growing renewable energy sector that currently supports 280,000 jobs across the country. The project will make payments in lieu of taxes, providing revenue for local government and schools. Participating landowners will receive income through property agreements.

Technical aspects include ground-mounted solar panels with tracking systems that follow the sun for peak energy production. Inverters will convert the direct current from solar panels into alternating current for the power grid.

The Ohio Power Siting Board oversaw the regulatory process under case #24-0495-EL-BGN. A public hearing held at Pleasantville Elementary School on January 27, 2025, allowed community input on the project.

Eastern Cottontail Solar represents part of EDF Renewables’ growing portfolio in Ohio. As renewable energy development continues across the state, Walnut Township now stands at the forefront of the shift to clean energy production.