Mon Power and Potomac Edison, subsidiaries of FirstEnergy Corp., are taking a significant step towards a cleaner energy future by transforming a former ash landfill in Berkeley County, West Virginia, into a state-of-the-art solar energy facility. This project, known as the Marlowe solar project, marks the third utility-scale solar site for the companies in West Virginia and represents a major investment in the state’s renewable energy landscape.
The 36-acre site, previously used for ash disposal from the R. Paul Smith Power Station, has undergone a remarkable transformation. In 2022, FirstEnergy successfully completed the closure of the landfill after removing over three million tons of ash, clearing the way for its redevelopment as a clean energy source. This innovative approach exemplifies the company’s dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
The Marlowe solar facility, expected to be operational in 2025, will generate up to 5.75 megawatts of renewable power. This translates to enough clean energy to power an estimated 173 homes, highlighting the project’s substantial contribution to reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy independence. The project is strategically located along Interstate 81 and the Potomac River, providing a visible symbol of the company’s commitment to clean energy development.
Mon Power and Potomac Edison are committed to local workforce development, utilizing local union workers for the construction of the Marlowe solar facility. Furthermore, the solar panels, racking system steel, and supporting electrical equipment are sourced from within the United States, supporting domestic manufacturing and creating jobs within the community.
This project aligns perfectly with a 2020 bill passed by the West Virginia Legislature, which encourages the development of renewable energy sources by authorizing electric utilities to own and operate up to 200 megawatts of solar generation facilities. This legislative initiative recognizes the economic benefits of renewable energy and its ability to attract businesses and industries seeking clean energy solutions.
The Marlowe solar project is just one component of a broader initiative by Mon Power and Potomac Edison to develop a total of 50 megawatts of renewable solar generation in West Virginia. The companies have already completed their first solar project at Fort Martin Power Station in Maidsville (18.9 megawatts) and are currently constructing a second site in Rivesville (5.5 megawatts). Combined, these five projects will generate over 87,000 solar renewable energy credits (SRECs), which are certificates that represent the environmental attributes of solar power. These SRECs are available for purchase by customers who prioritize renewable energy, allowing them to invest in a cleaner future.
Mon Power and Potomac Edison are actively engaging with residential and commercial customers, including the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) in Morgantown and the town of Harpers Ferry, to participate in their solar program. Customers can choose to subscribe to the program and purchase SRECs at an additional cost of 4 cents per kilowatt hour, contributing directly to the development and expansion of clean energy sources in West Virginia.
The companies are also seeking final approval from the Public Service Commission of West Virginia to build solar sites in Davis, Tucker County (11.5 MW), and Weirton, Hancock County (8.4 MW), demonstrating their commitment to expanding their renewable energy portfolio and meeting the growing demand for clean power in the state. This ambitious plan will continue to drive West Virginia’s transition to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible energy future.
