$1B Eastern KY Coal-to-Solar Project Breaks Ground

A New Era for Eastern Kentucky: Solar Power on Former Coal Mines

A groundbreaking solar project is set to transform one of Eastern Kentucky's former coal mines into a renewable energy hub. The initiative, valued at over $1 billion, has received approval from the Kentucky Public Service Commission to begin construction. This ambitious project, led by BrightNight, a private renewable power company, will establish a massive solar array on the former Starfire mine in Breathitt, Perry, and Knott counties.

The project consists of four phases, with the first phase allowing the construction of a 210-megawatt solar facility across approximately 1,980 acres. When completed, the entire project is expected to span nearly 8,000 acres and generate 800 megawatts of electricity, making it the largest solar facility in the state. While the total investment figure remains undetermined, the initial phase is projected to create 250 new direct jobs, generating more than $16 million in wages and benefits.

Construction is anticipated to take between 12 and 18 months, starting early next year and concluding in 2027. BrightNight’s Executive Vice President of Development, David Gil, emphasized that the transformation of the former coal mine into a solar power source represents a significant step toward reinvesting in a community historically reliant on coal production.

The Starfire mine operated from the 1960s through the 1990s, employing nearly 300 people at its peak and extracting over three million tons of coal annually. Its closure had a profound impact on the surrounding areas, leading to population decline and economic distress. However, the site now presents an opportunity for renewal, as the land is largely cleared and the region already possesses necessary infrastructure to support future employment.

BrightNight and Edelen Renewables are awaiting the results of an interconnection study to ensure the solar facility can safely connect to the grid before beginning construction. Adam Edelen, founder and CEO of Edelen Renewables, expressed a commitment to honoring the legacy of coal communities in Appalachia. He believes that Eastern Kentucky can continue to play a vital role in powering the American economy, but now through renewable energy.

Each subsequent phase of the project will require similar approvals, with the second phase likely to begin once the first phase is confirmed to be grid-compatible. The Nature Conservancy is also involved as an advisor, working with electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian to explore potential partnerships for purchasing electricity generated by the project.

To address environmental concerns, the developer has proposed adding wildlife corridors and reforesting at least 25 acres of land, along with creating 10 acres of pollinator habitat. The Kentucky Public Service Commission noted that the project would not negatively impact property values or cause significant noise disruption, with traffic congestion expected to remain minimal.

Local hiring is another key focus of the project, with BrightNight encouraging contractors to prioritize local labor. Partnerships with institutions like Hazard Community & Technical College and local mining companies aim to provide job opportunities. However, some residents have raised concerns about whether these promises will translate into actual local employment, citing past experiences where only a small percentage of workers were from the local area.

Despite these concerns, the project is seen as a positive step for the region. The economic impact is expected to be net positive, though some experts argue that higher standards should be applied to ensure long-term benefits for the community.

BrightNight has other projects in development, including the Frontier project in Central Kentucky, which is set to start construction this year. In Lexington, Edelen Renewables has proposed a solar farm on a former city dump, with potential operations beginning in 2027. The project must meet federal deadlines to qualify for tax credits, adding urgency to the planning process.

New zoning ordinances in Lexington-Fayette County allow for solar development in certain areas, although large-scale farms are prohibited in agricultural zones. These changes are scheduled for a vote by the full council on August 19.

In Eastern Fayette County, a 384-acre solar farm is being developed by the East Kentucky Power Cooperative, marking another step forward in renewable energy expansion. Meanwhile, the Martin County solar project recently began commercial operations, with Toyota North America and Shell Energy North America purchasing portions of the generated energy.

As these projects progress, they represent a shift toward sustainable energy solutions while addressing the economic challenges faced by former coal communities.