Carol Jean Solar - 4 MW Solar PV Facility in the United States

Carol Jean Solar is a solar photovoltaic (PV) facility located in the United States, with coordinates 36.3161° N, -80.1444° W. The plant has an installed capacity of 4 megawatts (MW) and is currently operational. It is owned by Cypress Creek Renewables, a prominent solar developer in the U.S. This facility represents a small-to-medium scale solar installation typical of distributed generation projects that support local energy needs. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) providing tax incentives for solar energy, and state-level Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) that drive demand for clean electricity. Solar PV technology converts sunlight directly into electricity, and the 4 MW capacity is sufficient to power approximately 800 homes annually. The facility benefits from net metering or power purchase agreements that facilitate grid integration. Carol Jean Solar contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and diversifying the energy mix. As a solar installation, it has minimal operational emissions and supports energy independence. The plant's location in the U.S. aligns with national goals to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035. Its operational status ensures ongoing clean energy generation for the local grid.

Solar PV facilities like Carol Jean Solar have a low environmental footprint during operation, with no air emissions or water consumption. However, land use for solar arrays can impact local ecosystems and agricultural land. In the U.S., solar projects often incorporate pollinator-friendly vegetation or dual-use agriculture to mitigate land-use conflicts. The facility's location in a region with moderate solar irradiance supports efficient energy generation without significant environmental disruption.