Mammoth north solar project begins operations in Starke County

By Andi Anderson

A massive solar project in Starke County, Indiana, known as the Mammoth North solar project, is now officially operational.

This project, one of the largest in the country, spans more than 4,500 acres and provides power to 75,000 households.

The entire Mammoth project involves 75 landowners and covers more than 13,000 acres across Starke and Pulaski County, where construction is still ongoing.

Nick Cohen, President and CEO of Doral Renewables LLC, shared an interesting origin story for the project's name. "One of the landowners mentioned they found mammoth bones in a nearby field, and that's how we decided to name the project 'Mammoth,'" Cohen said.

The land for the solar project is leased to Doral Renewables LLC for 30 years. Scott Fritz, a fifth-generation farmer and one of the project landowners, expressed his excitement about the future of farming with solar panels.

"I’ve farmed long enough to know there's always change. These panels represent the future of farming," Fritz said.

In addition to generating electricity, some farmers are integrating agricultural practices within the solar fields. "We have plans for blueberries, melons, and other crops. We see our solar field as a way to bring back heritage farming," Cohen added.

The solar panels are estimated to generate 400 megawatts of power, enough to supply 75,000 households annually. The electricity produced is sold to American Electric Power, which then distributes it to its customers.

Cohen emphasized the economic benefits of the project. "This is the first phase, and it will contribute millions of dollars in economic and tax payments to each county, over $20 million per county," he said.

Starke County is seeing a rise in solar projects, with more than 22,000 acres being leased for solar energy. Doral Renewables LLC has plans for many more projects in the future, promising continued growth and economic benefits for the region.

The Mammoth North solar project not only represents a significant advancement in renewable energy but also highlights the potential for integrating traditional farming practices with modern technology.

As more projects come online, the positive impact on both the environment and local economy will continue to grow.

Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography