US state launches massive 160-MW solar farm on abandoned coal mine

A former coal mine in Garrett County, western Maryland, has been converted into the state’s largest solar farm, with an installed capacity of 160 megawatts (MW). The facility, developed by Competitive Power Ventures (CPV) Renewable Power in partnership with Harrison Street Asset Management (HSAM), features approximately 324,000 solar panels and generates enough electricity to power over 30,000 homes annually. The project, completed in 2023 after beginning development in 2020, represents a significant example of brownfield redevelopment, repurposing exhausted mining land for renewable energy without encroaching on natural habitats. The solar farm not only contributes clean energy but also brings economic benefits to the local community, including job creation during construction and increased long-term tax revenue. CPV secured its third solar tax equity financing with U.S. Bank for the project, with advisory support from Marathon Capital. A second construction phase is underway to expand capacity to 175 MW. Local officials and project leaders emphasize the