Commissioners unanimously approve permit for Duff Solar Park; company projects $25 million in property tax value

The Dubois County Commissioners on April 1 unanimously approved Permit Application 2024-01, allowing EDP Renewables to proceed with construction of the proposed Duff Solar Park, a commercial solar energy system the county described as roughly 100 megawatts AC in capacity.

Bridgette Chia, project manager for EDP Renewables, presented preliminary site plans and said the project could begin construction this fall and take about one year to complete. She told the board the solar park’s expected operating lifetime is about 35 years and “could generate $25 million in property taxes.” Dennis Whitsitt, a landowner in the project area, attended to voice support.

The permit application notes the company agreed to construct the project in accordance with the standards referenced in Dubois County Ordinance 2022-12. Commissioners moved to approve the permit, the motion was seconded and carried unanimously.

Why it matters: The county will host a large, long-lived energy facility that, according to the company’s estimate, may contribute substantial property-tax revenue during its operating life. The commission did not set a construction start date other than the company’s target timeline and retained the county’s permitting conditions under Ordinance 2022-12.

What happened next: With the permit approved, EDP Renewables will proceed with detailed preparation and scheduling. The company’s submission includes a construction start no later than Dec. 31, 2026; the commission recorded the permit approval and will monitor compliance with county standards.

Provenance: topicintro SEG 108; topfinish SEG 119

Speakers quoted or attributed: Bridgette Chia (Project Manager, EDP Renewables), Dennis Whitsitt (landowner)