RWE, a leading renewable energy company in the U.S. is building its first utility-scale solar project in Illinois to help the state meet its rapidly growing demand for clean power.

RWE Expands Illinois Portfolio with Casey Fork Complex

The Casey Fork complex will be constructed in Jefferson County, increasing RWE’s renewable energy portfolio in Illinois to over 750 MW. McCarthy Building Companies Inc has been contracted to construct the facility.  Three of the state's electric utility companies—Ameren, ComEd and MidAmerican Energy—have agreed to purchase renewable energy credits from the Solar park.

The Casey Fork Solar project is part of RWE’s continuing U.S. expansion with plans to grow its renewables portfolio from more than 9 gigawatt (GW) net installed capacity today to more than 19 GW net by 2030. 

Hanson Wood, Head of Development, Utility-Scale Renewables for RWE Clean Energy stated,  “Across the U.S., communities are realizing the benefits of new clean energy infrastructure which create job opportunities, support economic growth and strengthen the local tax base. We look forward to bringing these benefits and more to local communities throughout the country like Jefferson County where RWE’s Casey Fork Solar park will spur hundreds of local jobs and tens of millions of dollars in economic output.”

RWE's Commitment to Community Growth

RWE is committed to supporting the communities in which it constructs, owns and operates its facilities. Jefferson County is a growing hub for manufacturing and energy infrastructure. Casey Fork Solar will bring new economic, education and environmental benefits to the area.

Tony Iriti, Executive Director of Jefferson County Development Corporation: “The Casey Fork Solar park is the first utility-scale renewable energy generation project in Jefferson County and further enhances our ability to attract sustainability-oriented businesses to the region.”

Additionally, as part of RWE’s proactive procurement strategy the company has preemptively secured high voltage equipment such as main power transformers and high voltage breakers to help ensure the timely construction of projects such as Casey Fork.

New Solar Project to Boost Local Economy

The project is anticipated to generate more than USD 36 million (EUR 33.5m) in economic activity creating over 200 jobs in Jefferson County during its construction phase. RWE projects that the solar park will contribute USD 22 million in property taxes over its operational lifespan.

Casey Fork park will boost local economic activity, create jobs and generate tax revenue all while supporting Illinois' clean energy goals. To help meet the carbon-reduction targets set by Illinois' landmark Climate and Equitable Jobs Act of 2021.

In addition to bringing new economic and job opportunities to the area, RWE is working to support local education and arts programs and is donating thousands of dollars to the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts.

RWE's Casey Fork Solar park in Illinois showcases renewable energy's transformative potential, promising economic growth through job creation and increased tax revenue for Jefferson County. By supporting local initiatives and Illinois' clean energy goals, RWE enriches communities while demonstrating commitment to sustainable energy solutions in the Midwest and beyond.