Solar farm proposed for Lake County

CROWN POINT, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) – A Chicago-based energy producer is looking to build a 200-megawatt solar farm in south Lake County. Our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana report Invenergy’s Foundry Works Solar Energy Center would be located on about 1,400 acres east of Interstate 65 and north of State Road 2.

The company says the solar farm would produce enough electricity to power 40,000 homes.

Katya Samoteskul, manager of renewable development for Invenergy, tells the publication construction of the solar farm is slated to begin in 2022 and cost $200 million.

The project is expected to create 350 construction jobs, with four permanent employees remaining on-site once operations begin.

Invenergy says it is not currently seeking any subsidies for the solar farm and plans to lease the needed land from Lake County property owners over a 35-year period.

The project still requires approval from the Lake County Council.

Samoteskul tells The Times the energy generated at the solar farm that’s sold to utility companies will cover the construction and ongoing operating costs, including the 35-year land leases. Additionally, she said the solar farm site ultimately can be returned to agricultural use.