NEW PHILADELPHIA — The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District is adding 13 solar energy projects in 2023.

The solar power generated from these projects will save MWCD money on electricity bills and help offset approximately 73% of the energy on locations with solar and lower our carbon footprint by an estimated 656 tons of CO2 emissions, according to a release.

This is a win-win for MWCD and the environment.

The MWCD Board of Directors recently approved an agreement with IMC Solar at their December board meeting to provide solar energy at Atwood, Clendening, Piedmont, Seneca, and Tappan Lakes, in addition to the office located in New Philadelphia.

“MWCD’s mission is to be a good steward of our natural resources,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “By harnessing solar energy to help power our facilities, we can reduce our carbon footprint, and lessen our environmental impact.

Ohio has excellent opportunities for solar power, and we expect to grow this program to expand in the future. We are fortunate to partner with IMC Solar and welcome them as part of our team to help us manage our long-term energy management needs.”

“The IMC Solar team is thrilled to partner with MWCD to develop renewable energy to help the District achieve its sustainability goal. The solar program will also provide better economics for the District’s energy expenditures,” said Rick Frio, Managing Partner IMC Solar.

The analysis began in 2022 with IMC Solar assessing the solar potential for MWCD.

This included evaluating electricity usage, determining potential solar locations, and potential cost savings.

IMC Solar will assist during the construction phase as well as the negotiations of a Purchase Power Agreement, including providing financial modeling of the potential projects.