Chicago Construction News staff writer
Geronimo Power hasannounced the start of construction on its 150-megawatt Bee Hollow Solar project in St. Clair County, part of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) market. The project is expected to bring economic benefits to the local community through new jobs, tax revenue, local spending, and charitable contributions.
Construction will be led by Burns & McDonnell, an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firm. The project is expected to support around 200 construction jobs. Bee Hollow has a previously announced power purchase agreement with the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA).
The solar farm is projected to generate $54 million in direct economic impact for the area over its first 20 years, including $17 million in new tax revenue distributed to the county, townships, and school districts. A dedicated charitable fund will provide additional benefits to the community.
Bee Hollow is expected to begin operation in late 2026, producing enough energy to supply the equivalent of 45,600 homes annually. Using the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s greenhouse gas calculator, the project is estimated to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 219,100 metric tons each year, equal to removing about 51,100 cars from the road.
Geronimo Power said the project reinforces its commitment to economic growth in rural America. Burns & McDonnell highlighted collaboration with union craft professionals and local subcontractors, while IMEA noted the project is the agency’s largest investment in renewable energy to date, supporting a more sustainable and resilient energy portfolio.
The project is part of ongoing efforts to expand clean energy in Illinois and across the MISO market.
