Lebanon one step closer to building huge solar array on city-owned property

No one spoke for or against the request during the public hearing, and the Planning Commission approved the request after some questions were answered.

The projected cost of the solar arrays will be reduced about 30% through a federal government direct-pay program.

Officials said the proposed $14.1 million project would help the city diversify its sources of electricity and provide savings for the city and its ratepayers. The solar panel farm will also be able to generate 10.1 megawatts of electricity for the city’s electric utility. The target operational start-up of the facility is expected in the fall of 2024.

City officials said the 35-year project estimates a return on investment after 10 years and will diversify its electricity sources. The city owns and operates its own electric distribution network and is a member of the AMP-Ohio network.

Kokosing Solar recommended the city build and own its own fixed-tilt solar arrays, which is projected to cost about $14 million. Representatives noted that a federal program would pay the city about 30% of the cost, or more than $4.8 million, which would bring the cost down to $9.15 million.

If the city does not directly purchase the solar array, it would not be eligible for the federal direct-pay program. Kokosing Solar also estimated cost savings at $26.9 million over the 35-year lifespan of the arrays.

Kokosing Solar officials said solar generation is a long-term hedge that diversifies the city’s energy portfolio with zero fuel-cost volatility.

City Manager Scott Brunka said a construction agreement between the city and Kokosing Solar will be reviewed at Lebanon City Council’s Aug. 14 work session. He said the final decision to move forward on the project will be considered and voted on at council’s Aug. 22 meeting.

“We’ve looked at this for years,” Brunka said last month. “It’s a low-risk investment opportunity that diversifies energy sources. It will provide 3-4% of the city’s annual energy needs and it’s a good use of undevelopable land that will bring economic development opportunities.”