#United States #Wisconsin #Solar Project #Portage #Geronimo Power

Geronimo Power Expands Solar Initiative in Wisconsin

In a significant stride towards renewable energy, Geronimo Power has officially initiated onsite construction for its 250-megawatt (MW) Portage Solar Project located in Portage County, Wisconsin. This exciting development marks another step in Geronimo's mission to enhance its portfolio while contributing positively to local economies. The company's efforts align with the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) market, which is increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainable energy resources.

Economic Impact of the Portage Solar Project

Joe Ibrahim, the Vice President of Construction at Geronimo Power, emphasized the intrinsic value of renewable energy. According to Ibrahim, the true benefits extend beyond merely supplying electricity to the local grid; they significantly enhance the economic landscape within the community. The Portage Solar Project is anticipated to inject over $100 million into Wisconsin’s economy, a remarkable milestone that showcases the project’s potential to uplift project communities.

Over the first two decades of operations, the Portage Solar Project is expected to generate more than $73 million in direct economic impact. This will be realized through new tax revenue, job creation, increased local spending, and philanthropic contributions. Specifically, $24 million of the anticipated tax revenue will be allocated to local county and townships, demonstrating Geronimo's commitment to reinvesting in the communities that host its projects.

Job Creation and Local Workforce Engagement

Furthermore, the project is projected to create more than 300 construction jobs, with a strong preference for employing local Wisconsin craft labor. As evidenced by this initiative, Geronimo aims to bolster the local workforce while ensuring that the benefits of renewable energy are felt firsthand by the residents. Geronimo Power is collaborating with the prominent engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firm Burns & McDonnell for this project. Leslie M. Duke, chair and CEO of Burns & McDonnell, expressed pride in supporting Geronimo Power’s vision as they work together to provide reliable, renewable energy to meet the growing demand for data centers and sustainable practices.

Community Contributions and Funding

Beyond the significant tax revenues and job creation, the Portage Solar Project will also contribute approximately $1.25 million to local charities and organizations over its first 20 years of operation. This funding initiative reflects Geronimo's commitment to being a responsible and engaged community partner. By establishing a dedicated charitable fund, Geronimo aims to cultivate long-term relationships and contribute to the social fabric of the area, proving its status as a good neighbor in the communities where it operates.

A Broader Vision for Renewable Energy

As Geronimo Power continues to expand its dedicated portfolio, this project paves the way forward not only for the company but for the greater vision of renewable energy across the United States. Particularly in states like Wisconsin, where renewable energy initiatives are gaining traction, Geronimo's endeavors are significant in shifting the energy landscape towards sustainability. With the completion of the Portage Solar Project, along with the previously announced Apple River Solar Project, which recently began construction in Polk County, Wisconsin is set to see an impressive shift in its renewable energy capacity.

Geronimo Power represents a forward-thinking approach to energy production, rooted in community engagement and a commitment to local economies. For further information about Geronimo Power and its projects, please visit their official website or follow them on social media.

Geronimo continues to prove that the future of energy is not just about providing electricity; it’s about fostering economic growth, job creation, and community involvement through sustainable practices. As renewable energy takes center stage, initiatives like the Portage Solar Project will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in determining the trajectory of energy development in the coming years.