EDF Renewables North America and Enbridge have commenced the full operation of the 577MW Fox Squirrel Solar project in the US.
Located in Madison County, Ohio, the solar project was developed in three phases. It is said to be one of the largest utility-scale solar developments east of the Mississippi River.
Currently, all phases of the Fox Squirrel Solar project are actively delivering electricity to the PJM Interconnection grid.
Phase 1, with a capacity of 150MW, became operational in December 2023, while Phase 2, contributing 250MW, came online in July 2024. The final phase, generating 177MW was completed in December 2024.
The Fox Squirrel facility features 1.4 million ground-mounted panels and 159 inverters. The project will generate clean energy sufficient to power approximately 118,000 households.
During its peak construction period, the project employed approximately 650 workers, who installed an average of 10,000 panels daily, contributing nearly 1.5 million work hours.
EDF Renewables North America onshore development senior vice president Kate O’Hair said: “This project is a shining example of the power of partnerships between landowners, the local community and our project partners all working together towards a sustainable future.
“Our development partner, Geenex Solar, has been instrumental in making this project a reality. Fox Squirrel has brought hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars to Madison County throughout the development and construction phase.”
Developed by EDF Renewables and co-owned by Enbridge, the Fox Squirrel Solar project supplies its full generation capacity to Amazon under power purchase agreements. This aligns with Amazon’s climate pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
The Fox Squirrel project is part of the Geenex Solar development pipeline acquired by EDF Renewables in October 2020. Enbridge joined the project as a 50% partner in November 2023, further expanding its investment in renewable energy initiatives.
In addition, the completion of the Fox Squirrel Solar project is expected to support Ohio’s energy needs while attracting business investment and fostering economic growth in the state.
Enbridge power business development vice president Tom Carbone said: “This project represents an important milestone in advancing Enbridge’s renewable energy strategy, reinforcing our leadership in the ongoing energy evolution.
“We’re proud to provide 100% of the power to Amazon to help provide clean, renewable energy for their operations and support their sustainability goals.”
