Competitive Power Ventures (CPV), a subsidiary of OPC Energy Ltd., plans to apply to the State of Maryland for a Public Convenience and Necessity Certificate (CPCN) to build and operate the 175 MW AC backbone solar farm (CPCN). CPV Backbone) in the state's westernmost county.
It is proposed to build CPV backbone on former Vindex / Arch Coal mining sites north of Kitzmiller, Md. The mines recently closed after decades of operation during which they served as a major economic engine for the region. The project will be located on around 1,100 hectares of the former mine site.
CPV has been conducting environmental, geotechnical, electrical and engineering studies on the property since the beginning of 2020. The start of construction is planned for the beginning of 2022 – commissioning is planned for mid-2023. The project will help Maryland meet its clean energy goals of 14.5% solar energy by 2028 and 50% renewable energy by 2030.
"This project is an example of CPV's mission to deliver responsible energy while realizing significant positive benefits for the region in which it is located," said Sean Finnerty, executive vice president of CPV. "We are grateful for the warm welcome we received and look forward to working with the community as we move the project forward."
Garrett County's board members recently approved a resolution in support of the project – key local groups have also expressed their support. Once approved, the project is expected to take 14 months to build and will employ over 150 people during construction.
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