Benefits | Lotus Creek Renewable Energy

AMERICAN-MADE ENERGY

Energy from the Lotus Creek Renewable Energy project will go directly onto the local electrical grid, providing the surrounding area and the state of Ohio with homegrown energy. This project increases American energy independence, boosts the local economy, and creates jobs.

OHIO'S PILOT PROGRAM

Ohio’s PILOT Program ensures a win-win scenario for developers and communities that host renewable energy projects. If Warren County enters into a PILOT agreement with the Lotus Creek Renewable Energy project, the PILOT stature requires that renewable energy projects pay fixed taxes per MW per year to Warren County, plus an additional service payment to the County’s general fund. These annual payments continue throughout the project’s lifespan, which is estimated to be 40 years.

SUPPORTING THE ECOMONY

Along with creating a more secure and reliable energy grid that supports the local economy, Lotus Creek Renewable Energy will generate tax revenue to support the community, improve the existing infrastructure by paving roads, create more jobs, and add new long-term revenue streams for local landowners. This project will create approximately 140 new jobs during construction as well as additional long-term opportunities once operational. Local vendors and businesses will be utilized when possible to bring even more money directly into the local economy. The construction period also brings an increase in local spending including hotels, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and other vendors.

FUNDING FOR SCHOOLS

If a PILOT agreement is executed with Warren County, local school districts could be one of the largest recipients of the revenue generated from Lotus Creek Renewable Energy. PILOT funds are allocated to local governments and school districts in the same way personal property tax is allocated. This revenue would be a reliable, annual source of funding that would significantly benefit Warren County students and faculty.

LAND USE BENEFITS

Solar projects preserve the agricultural character of the community and protect against permanent residential or commercial developments. They provide an opportunity for landowners to maintain their family land for future generations. Revenue from solar projects is predictable, reliable, drought-resistant, and not subject to swings in commodity prices, making it a great choice for many family farms. Once the solar project reaches the end of its useful life, the land will be thoughtfully restored and ready for farming, ensuring there are no lasting impacts on its agricultural potential.

PRESERVING WATER & ENVIRONMENT

Solar energy projects contribute to a cleaner environment for all because they don’t create any air pollution and conserve water while preserving water quality. Unlike many power production methods, solar energy projects use negligible amounts of water, with the majority of locations relying on natural precipitation to clean panels. The infrastructure of solar projects, including underground cabling and support poles, is installed at depths that don't affect groundwater quality, leaving minimal impact on the environment. The vegetation surrounding solar can enhance local water quality by mitigating erosion and enhancing soil moisture retention.

SAFEGUARDING WILDLIFE & BIODIVERSITY

Wildlife protection and biodiversity are a priority in Vesper’s solar project siting process. After a suitable location is found with existing land and transmission access, environmental assessments are conducted to identify any sensitive regions, which further guides the design of the proposed project. Solar facilities are designed to be low-impact and they maintain vegetative cover between panels, ensuring healthy soil, optimal water retention, and minimized erosion. Moreover, solar projects often incorporate pollinator-friendly plants in areas where this can have a positive impact on neighboring harvest yields and overall ecosystem health. We are committed to using native plants, pollinators and are open to other agrivoltaic methods to ensure this project fits in well with the surrounding area and upholds the county's vision.

DECOMMISSIONING

Prior to construction, Vesper Energy works with participating landowners and relevant authorities to plan for the proper removal of equipment at the end of the project’s life. Decommissioning plans will be established to safeguard taxpayers from any monetary obligation for decommissioning. Once the equipment is removed, the land can be returned to its original use.

SAFEGUARDING WILDLIFE & BIODIVERSITY

Wildlife protection and biodiversity are a priority in Vesper’s solar project siting process. After a suitable location is found with existing, suitable land use and transmission access, environmental assessments are conducted to identify any sensitive regions, which further guides the design of the proposed project. Solar facilities are designed to be low-impact and they maintain vegetative cover between panels, ensuring healthy soil, optimal water retention, and minimized erosion. Moreover, solar projects often incorporate pollinator-friendly plants in areas where this can have a positive impact on neighboring harvest yields and overall ecosystem health. We are committed to using native plants, pollinators and are open to other agrivoltaic methods to ensure this project fits in well with the surrounding area and upholds the county's vision.

DECOMMISSIONING

Prior to construction, Vesper Energy works with participating landowners and relevant authorities to plan for the proper removal of equipment at the end of the project’s life. Decommissioning plans will be established to safeguard taxpayers from any monetary obligation for decommissioning. Once the equipment is removed, the land can be returned to agricultural use.