Wedoany.com Report-Nov 18, National Grid Renewables has announced the start of onsite construction at its 100MW Apple River Solar Project in Polk County, Wisconsin.

The project is anticipated to make significant economic contributions in the form of jobs and new tax revenue that will benefit the local county and townships.

Joe Ibrahim, vice president of construction at National Grid Renewables, said: "As a company founded by a farmer in the Midwest, we have a strong commitment to bolstering rural economies through our renewable energy projects, and it's exciting to see that growth in western Wisconsin."

Apple River is anticipated to generate over US$36m in direct economic impact throughout the first 20 years of operation, including an estimated US$10m in tax revenue to Polk County and local townships.

Construction of the project will be performed by The Boldt Company and will sustain 150 construction and service jobs, the developer said.

Apple River will use First Solar Series 6 Plus bifacial modules.

Once operational, the Apple River project will supply power to Xcel Energy to serve its customers across the Upper Midwest.

Anticipated to begin operation in late 2025, Apple River is anticipated to generate enough clean, renewable, local energy to provide the equivalent electrical usage of an estimated 26,000 homes each year.