The project in Guyton could generate up to 27 megawatts of electricity and millions of dollars in local tax revenue over 30 years, according to developers.
The project in Guyton could generate up to 27 megawatts of electricity and millions of dollars in local tax revenue over 30 years, according to developers.
A proposed solar farm in Effingham County could generate enough electricity to power thousands of homes, but some neighbors worry the development would change the area’s rural character.
The project, called the Effingham Burns Solar Farm, would cover about 150 acres of land near Highway 119 and Little McCall Road in Guyton, according to a Development of Regional Impact (DRI) filing.
Georgia-based developer Inman Solar is leading the proposal. A company spokesperson said the solar farm could generate up to 27 megawatts of electricity, enough to power approximately 4,725 homes. The spokesperson said the project is planned to feed into Georgia Power’s existing grid.
Georgia Power told WJCL 22 News that the proposed solar farm is not currently part of its current Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) portfolio. However, the utility does "regularly procure renewable energy from third-party developers."
Some neighbors shared concerned about the project’s potential effect on the landscape.
“I don’t really like seeing big industrialization,” Guyton resident Walker Shearouse said. “The more that they put out here, it’s just taking away from the land… It’s an eyesore.”
Inman Solar said the project "would be tucked away on private property and not visible to most folks."
Shearouse said he also hopes the development could provide some relief for utility customers.
“Electric bills are high nowadays,” he said. “Hopefully, that can drop it down, too.”
The developer has not said whether the project would reduce customers’ electricity bills.
Inman Solar estimates the solar farm would generate about $136,000 annually in tax revenue for Effingham County over its projected 30-year lifespan, including approximately $1.2 million in tax revenue during its first five years.
Construction could begin as early as 2027. Before work can start, however, the proposal is expected to go before the Effingham County Board of Commissioners.
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