Lightsource bp Launches Honeysuckle Solar Project in Indiana

New Era of Clean Energy
Indiana has officially begun benefiting from 188 megawatts of clean energy generation with the launch of Lightsource bp’s Honeysuckle solar project in St. Joseph County. This privately funded solar farm highlights the advantages of investing in domestic renewable energy while utilizing 85% local labor.

Supporting Local Economies and Renewable Energy
Emilie Wangerman, COO of Lightsource bp USA, emphasized the project’s role in bolstering the U.S. solar manufacturing sector and investing in rural communities. The Honeysuckle Solar project is positioned to showcase the tangible benefits Americans are gaining from the Inflation Reduction Act.

Corporate Partnerships Drive Economic Impact
Lightsource bp has signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Google, linking the electricity generated from Honeysuckle Solar to Google’s expanding Midwest operations, including a new $2 billion data center campus in Fort Wayne. Amanda Peterson Corio, Google’s Global Head of Data Center Energy, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to operating all campuses on clean electricity by 2030.

Local Workforce and Sustainable Practices
Located approximately 10 miles from South Bend, Honeysuckle Solar exemplifies how utility-scale solar projects can enhance American energy independence while benefiting local economies. South Bend-based Inovateus Solar LLC led the construction, employing a workforce where 85% were local laborers, contributing to 280,000 local man-hours.

Economic Benefits for the Community
The project, supported by U.S. manufacturers like First Solar and Nucor, is expected to generate $30 million in revenue for the local community over its lifespan, providing additional funding for schools and services without raising taxes. Bill Schalliol, Executive Director of Economic Development for St. Joseph County, highlighted the critical role of local clean energy projects in attracting new investments, noting that over $14 billion in new project investments have been announced this year.