Chicago Construction News staff writer
Arevon Energy, Inc. marked a major milestone this week with a construction ceremony for its 124-megawatt Big Muddy Solar Project, the company’s first utility-scale development in Illinois and a nearly $200-million private investment in Jackson County.
Construction is being led by Signal Energy and will employ more than 250 workers, including members of IBEW Local 702, IUOE Local 318 and LIUNA Local 773. Arevon says the influx of construction activity will benefit area hotels, restaurants and other businesses.
The project, located near Murphysboro and named for the Big Muddy River, is expected to generate enough electricity to power more than 24,000 homes once it reaches commercial operation at the end of 2026. Formerly known as Campbell Solar, the facility was renamed to reflect local identity, complete with a logo featuring Murphysboro’s legendary Big Muddy Monster.
Arevon will own and operate the project, which is under a long-term virtual power purchase agreement with a multinational technology company. The company estimates the project will contribute more than $12.6 million in property tax revenue during its lifespan, supporting schools, emergency services and local infrastructure.
At a Nov. 18 event marking the project’s progress, speakers included Arevon CEO Kevin Smith, local elected officials, business leaders, educators and community stakeholders.
“Big Muddy Solar’s impactful investment delivers real value for businesses and families in Jackson County,” Smith said, adding that Arevon intends to be a long-term community partner. “This facility will not only generate essential, domestically produced energy as electricity demand rises, but it will also strengthen the region through tax revenue and continued community engagement.”
Dawn McClerren, executive director of the Murphysboro Chamber of Commerce, said the project will benefit “local families, schools and organizations for many years.”
Arevon says environmental stewardship is central to the project. The site will host pollinator-friendly plantings beneath and around the solar arrays, creating habitat that protects soil health and supports pollinator populations.
The company has also made early community investments through education, food security and public-safety initiatives, partnering with organizations including local school foundations, SIUC’s STEM Education Research Center, Victory Dream Center, the Murphysboro Food Pantry and multiple fire and ambulance services.
