MOUNT GILEAD — Sol Systems, a national leader in renewable energy development, hosted a private community celebration Thursday to honor more than 30 local organizations that received a combined $1.5 million in community funding through the Blossom Solar Project.
The event was at Flying Horse Farms – a medical specialty camp for kids with serious illnesses and their families that provides experiences at no cost – and brought
together nonprofit partners, community leaders, and project stakeholders to recognize
the impact of this investment in Morrow County.
“Sol Systems projects are more than a clean energy project — it’s a commitment to the
people and future of this region – and Blossom Solar’s contributions to organizations in
Morrow County are proof of that,” said Mark Walter, Sol Systems vice president of external affairs at Sol Systems.
“We’re proud to support organizations that are making a difference every day,” he said.
The celebration concluded with Sol Systems presenting a check for $30,000 to support
Flying Horse Farms, celebrating its15th camp season and upcoming Campfire event.
The Blossom Solar Project represents a $100 million investment in Morrow County and
is expected to generate $51 million in tax revenue over its lifetime, including $22 million for the Northmor School District.
The 144 MWac solar facility is being developed by Sol Systems, with support from Qcells and other partners.
“The community that champions camp makes it possible for kids to experience camp at no cost,” said Stacey Kyser, Flying Horse Farms chief development officer.
“Sol Systems’ generous support is an investment that will fuel the joy and connection campers discover here. We’re grateful for their contribution to the mission. Their support will make more happen for kids with serious illnesses and their families – giving them a place of fun, belonging, and friendship.”
The ceremony comes even as local labor unions headquartered in Mansfield continue to protest at the work site, claiming they have been denied the opportunity to fill what they believe are around 350 construction jobs as the $100 million Blossom Solar Project.
“For the last three years, the trade unions in this area have advocated earnestly for these jobs and for the opportunity for our members to be a part of this,” Jeff Sellers, business manager for Laborers Local 1216 said July 29.
“I know that the IBEW (Local 688) and other local community supporters testified on behalf of Blossom Solar to get this project permitted and approved with the hopes that we would have the opportunity to work out here,” Sellers said.
“But unfortunately, those hopes and dreams have been dismantled by Sol Systems and Qcells because we’re not going to be able to be on this project. It’s very unfortunate the ones that helped bring this project to life are the ones now being left behind,” Sellers said.
Laborers Local 1216 and IBEW Local 688, also based in Mansfield, and Local 18 of the International Union of Operating Engineers have demonstrated at the site since construction began this summer.