"Big Rivers is excited to add this renewable energy source to our portfolio for the sole benefit of our member-owners," said Bob Berry, president and CEO of Big Rivers Electric Corporation. "This is another example of our commitment to provide safe, reliable and sustainable energy to our members."
Anticipated to begin operations at the end of 2023, Unbridled Solar is currently the largest solar project development in the state of Kentucky. Using the United States’ Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator, the project is estimated to offset carbon dioxide emissions by 255,000 metric tons annually.
“Geronimo Energy has a long-term commitment to the State of Kentucky,” stated David Reamer, president for Geronimo Energy. “We have established roots in the southeastern region of the United States, and together with Big Rivers Electric Corporation, we are expanding upon this foundation to bring farmer-friendly and economically beneficial renewable energy to local and statewide Kentucky communities and economies.”
The associated economic benefits projected to result from Unbridled Solar total an estimated $9 million throughout the first 20 years of operation, including positive impacts in new tax revenue, construction jobs, new full-time jobs, and charitable funds through the project’s Education Fund. The Unbridled Solar Education Fund alone will provide approximately $640,000 in donations to the local school districts connected to the project above and beyond all tax revenue and local spending benefits.
"I think Big Rivers Electric Corporation has selected an outstanding company. Geronimo Energy has a reputation for being a great community partner,” stated Stephen R. Henry, Webster County Judge Executive. “I look forward to working with their team to see what opportunities can be generated for our area because of this project. With agriculture being so important to us all, I am glad to get a farmer-friendly company like Geronimo."
