Construction begins on largest solar project east of the Mississippi River

Construction has officially begun on what will become the largest solar project east of the Mississippi River. Located in southern Illinois, the Double Black Diamond Solar Facility is poised to generate 800 megawatts of power upon its completion, capable of powering approximately 100,000 homes annually.

Major energy-intensive clients, including O’Hare International Airport and Loyola University Chicago, are already lined up to source electricity from the project.

Developers highlight that the facility will also play a critical role in reducing the region’s carbon footprint, with an estimated annual CO2 reduction of around one million tons — equivalent to removing 250,000 gas-powered vehicles from the roads.

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The Double Black Diamond Solar facility is also expected to have a substantial economic impact on the local community. Officials estimate that the project will generate $100 million in tax revenue and support hundreds of jobs during its construction and operation phases.

Most of the 1.6 million solar panels used in the facility will be manufactured in the United States, amid growing concerns over the environmental and ethical issues associated with cheaper Chinese solar technology imports, including harmful manufacturing practices and allegations of forced labor. Looking ahead, commercial operations at the Black Diamond Solar site are projected to begin by 2025.