FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Ohio (Aug. 21, 2025) — The Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) has officially approved the Eastern Cottontail Solar Project, clearing the way for construction of a 220-megawatt solar facility in Walnut Township, Fairfield County. Even with some local and Commissioner Pushback, the board still approved the location.
Developed by EDF Power Solutions, the project is expected to deliver major economic and environmental benefits to central Ohio. Once completed, Eastern Cottontail will generate enough clean energy to power roughly 42,000 homes, supporting the region’s rapidly growing demand for electricity.
In July, Fairfield County Commissioners voted to oppose a proposed large-scale solar energy project in Amanda Township. The vote, held on July 8, saw Commissioners Jeff Fix and Steve Davis voting against the Carnation Solar project, a different project, while Commissioner Dave Levacy abstained. This opposition was on top of a resolution they passed in May of 2024 restricting companies from constructing industrial solar farms exceeding 50 megawatts in unincorporated areas of the county. The resolution was a little late though, Cottontail started its project in October of 2021, That’s when Gov. Mike DeWine signed Ohio Senate Bill 52 into law which mandated the numerous steps a company must follow to build a solar field.
“This milestone is a result of years of engagement with the Fairfield County community, farmers, landowners, and local officials,” said Nick Lucania, the project’s lead developer. “We’re committed to keeping that dialogue going as we move into construction and beyond.”
The project is expected to create:
- 500 construction jobs
- Long-term positions in operations and maintenance
- 270 indirect jobs across local industries
Over its lifetime, Eastern Cottontail is projected to generate $80 million in tax revenue to support schools, police, fire departments, and local services.
In addition to producing renewable energy, the project plans to integrate agriculture by using sheep grazing for vegetation management. EDF has pledged to work with local shepherds to supply and manage the flocks.
With OPSB approval now in hand, construction is set to begin soon.
