horizon solar farm
Frio County, TX
Project Overview
Horizon Solar Energy, LLC (“Horizon Solar”) is a 200-megawatt (MW) solar facility on 1,640 acres of privately-owned land near the city of Pearsall in Frio County, Texas. The project connects to South Texas Electric Cooperative’s electric system via a new 138kV switching station connecting to the Pearsall substation.
Horizon Solar is expected to operate for 30+ years, providing significant economic investment to the community, a substantial property tax base for the County and schools, while generating emission-free renewable energy.
Horizon Solar began construction in 2022, and began operating in late-2023.
Project location
Timeline
Community Involvement
Horizon Solar is committed to being a dedicated member of the community and to work hard to earn the trust of our neighbors. Our engagement with the community goes well beyond job creation, economic investment, and providing clean, renewable energy. We strive to build lasting partnerships with civic leaders, property owners, and community members. We pride ourselves on being transparent in our communication and highly responsive to public feedback throughout the life of the project. We also believe being involved means giving back. We get to
know our neighbors and have a long history of supporting local causes the community is passionate about. Whether through employee volunteer opportunities or corporate-level sponsorships, we are always looking for positive ways to stay actively engaged with the community and to serve as a good corporate neighbor.
About Us
Horizon Solar, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE), a leading renewable energy company that owns and operates a portfolio of 27 renewable energy facilities across nine states totaling approximately 2,800 megawatts of generating capacity. LRE is actively developing and contracting new wind, solar, and energy storage projects in energy markets across the U.S., with 1.9 gigawatts contracted and 20 gigawatts under development and construction, spanning over 100 projects. LRE is a portfolio company of OMERS Infrastructure, an investment arm of OMERS, one of Canada’s largest defined benefit pension plans with C$124.2 billion in net assets (as at December 31, 2022).
Responsible Development
Responsible development is an ethos that runs deep at Leeward Energy and our subsidiary companies. We develop, own, and operate renewable generation assets for the long term, and are committed to leaving a positive impact on the communities where we operate. We achieve this by prioritizing our values of community partnership, sustainability, and safety.
CLICK HERE for more information about Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC.
Resources
Horizon Solar Project Fact Sheet Download Here
Solar frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What will the solar facility look like?
The Horizon Solar facility will primarily consist of rows of photovoltaic electric generating modules mounted to steel frames installed on driven steel posts with central inverters spaced throughout the site. The entire perimeter of the project site will be fenced for security and safety.
Will the solar facility reduce my property value?
Well-developed solar projects will not negatively impact property values. A solar energy facility such as Horizon Solar is a low-intensity, passive use of land. Once constructed, solar projects do not possess the negative qualities that could theoretically impact property values such as hazardous materials, odor, noise, and excess traffic. Enhanced setbacks and professional landscaping will also be used to mitigate visual impact.
Will the solar facility produce glare or noise?
Solar panel technology has advanced significantly in recent years. The solar panels will be manufactured with tempered glass and anti-reflective coatings, minimizing glare. The moving mechanical parts of a solar facility produce minimal noise and are typically inaudible beyond the property boundaries based on the setbacks that are included in the facility’s design.
How long will the solar facility be operational?
The average life of a solar facility is approximately 30-40 years, but with proper maintenance, it can last longer.
Who will maintain the property and vegetation?
Horizon Solar will be responsible for maintaining the solar facility property. We work diligently with consultants and local stakeholders to ensure proper ground cover, erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management. We also implement vegetation management plans and best management practices to promote the establishment of native vegetation and the proper mitigation of overgrowth and invasive plant species.
What happens at the end of the project’s life?
At the end of the life of the Project, Horizon Solar will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site to its original use. As part of the permitting review process, Horizon Solar will submit a decommissioning plan to ensure that ample consideration and protections will be provided.
How will development of the solar facility affect my community?
Construction will bring new employment opportunities, a large direct investment in the community, and local business generated from the purchase of food, fuel, accommodations, and other local supplies. During the construction period there will be a relatively short-term increase in traffic volume and noise, typical of similar projects.
Once the Project is operational, daily traffic to and from the site will be minimal. Throughout its life, the Project will not burden Blackford County services and utilities; however, it will contribute substantial revenue to local tax authority and provide clean energy in Texas.
complaint resolution
If you have a concern or complaint about any aspect of the Horizon Solar facility, you can use this form to register your concern or complaint. If you choose to register your concern by phone, please be prepared to provide the information requested on this form.
Contact
If you have additional questions about Horizon Solar, please fill out the form below or contact Horizon Solar Public Affairs at info@horizonsolarfarm.com or 830-468-5054.
