#United States #Renewable Energy #Springfield #Swift Current Energy #Double Black Diamond Solar

Swift Current Energy Launches a Major Solar Facility

Swift Current Energy has officially announced the operational launch of its Double Black Diamond Solar facility, boasting an impressive production capacity of 800 MWdc (593 MWac). Located approximately 30 miles west of Springfield, Illinois, this facility represents a significant advancement in the state's renewable energy landscape and holds the title of the largest solar project operating east of the Mississippi River.

A Celebration of Milestones

On April 30, 2025, local leaders, key project stakeholders, and representatives from Swift Current Energy gathered to celebrate the successful completion of the solar project at a ceremonial ribbon-cutting. The event featured remarks from notable figures such as Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter, and executives from Constellation and Swift Current Energy, including the company's CEO Eric Lammers.

The ceremony underscored the collaborative spirit that drove the project's success, with Lammers emphasizing the role of American workers and manufacturers in realizing this ambitious project. He stated, "Electricity demand in the U.S. is accelerating...Our Double Black Diamond Solar facility is an example of how we are utilizing U.S.-manufacturers and American workers to provide the energy needed to charge our country's growth."

Powering Major Urban Centers

The newly operational solar facility is critical for several local municipalities that are committed to reducing their carbon footprint. Among the primary customers sourcing energy from the Double Black Diamond Solar project are the City of Chicago and seven other entities, all of which are transitioning to more sustainable power options. Notably, about 70% of the power utilized by the City - including essential services such as O'Hare and Midway airports - comes directly from this solar facility, heralding a new era of renewable energy for urban infrastructure.

Economic Impact and Local Benefits

Moreover, Double Black Diamond Solar is projected to generate substantial economic benefits for the surrounding regions of Sangamon and Morgan Counties, estimated at around $100 million over the project's lifetime. This financial boost is particularly crucial as approximately 60% of this revenue will support local public schools, while the remainder will reinforce essential community services including public safety and infrastructure enhancements.

Commitment to Local Job Creation

The project has already created around 500 construction jobs, marking a significant contribution to the local economy. The successful completion of the project also adhered to the Illinois Clean and Equitable Jobs Act's standards, underscoring Swift Current's commitment to promoting diversity in hiring and providing opportunities to a wider range of Illinois residents.

The solar modules for the facility were primarily sourced from First Solar, an Ohio-based manufacturer, demonstrating the project's focus on supporting local industry. Additionally, important project components were crafted from 100% domestically-produced steel.

Future Goals and Sustainability

In line with increasing demands for renewable energy, the timing of this project could not be more critical. As the U.S. pivots towards a greener economy, Double Black Diamond Solar stands as a pioneering example of how large-scale solar initiatives can leverage local resources, drive job creation, and notably, enhance the energy mix for major urban centers.

In reflecting on the project's implications, Mayor Johnson remarked, "This project is a powerful example of why we believe in the green economy. Its commitment to union-made, clean energy will significantly benefit our communities and elevate our efforts in environmental justice."

Swift Current Energy looks forward to continuing its partnership with local entities such as the City of Chicago, Constellation, and several other stakeholders, ensuring that the impact of Double Black Diamond Solar will resonate long into the future as a model of success in renewable energy development.

For more information about the project or Swift Current Energy's initiatives, visit swiftcurrentenergy.com.