RWE, a renewable energy company, has commenced construction on the Union Ridge Solar project in Licking County, the company’s second solar farm in Ohio, US.
The 98MW AC facility, which RWE acquired from Leeward Renewable Energy in late 2024, represents a significant expansion of the company’s energy assets in the state.
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The construction of RWE’s Union Ridge Solar project is expected to inject approximately $68m in new economic activity into the country.
RWE Clean Energy COO Kevin Kroll said: “Our Union Ridge project is an example of how we partner with leading American companies to bring job growth and critical economic activity to communities across America with our homegrown energy.
“Through our partnership with MasTec, we are helping to create new employment opportunities for Licking County residents and support Ohio’s current and future skilled labour workforce.”
At the peak of construction, the project will employ about 280 workers, contributing to the economic well-being of the community through wages, benefits, and increased local spending, states the company.
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By GlobalDataRWE and its construction partner, MasTec Renewables, plan to utilise Ohio’s craft union workforce for the Union Ridge project.
Collaborations with the Laborers’ International Union of North America, the International Union of Operating Engineers, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, aim to hire skilled labourers, operators, and electricians.
MasTec Renewables Operations senior vice-president Mike Flynn said: “Our partnership with RWE on the Union Ridge Solar project showcases MasTec’s dedication to sparking local economic growth and strengthening workforce development. By harnessing Ohio’s talented labour pool, we’re doing more than constructing a solar farm; we’re investing in the community’s future.
“This collaboration will generate hundreds of jobs for Licking County residents, spanning roles from skilled labourers to utility electricians and solar panel assemblers. We’re proud to work alongside RWE in driving the clean energy transition while simultaneously bolstering local economies and providing valuable career opportunities for Ohioans.”
The addition of Union Ridge will enable RWE’s total operating capacity in Ohio to reach nearly 500MW, enough to power more than 118,000 homes annually, on average.
Upon completion, the Union Ridge Solar project is projected to generate more than $35m in tax revenue over 40 years, benefiting the Southwest Licking Local School District, Harrison Township, and other local jurisdictions.
