Overview
Downs Farm Solar is a 5 MW solar PV facility in North Carolina, USA, owned by Cypress Creek Renewables. It contributes to the state's renewable energy capacity under the US IRA and state RPS.
Downs Farm Solar is a 5 MW solar photovoltaic facility located in North Carolina, United States. Owned by Cypress Creek Renewables, the plant is operational and contributes to the region's renewable energy generation. As a small-scale solar installation, it supports local energy needs and grid stability. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and North Carolina's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), which mandates a percentage of energy from renewable sources. Solar PV technology converts sunlight directly into electricity, with no emissions during operation. The 5 MW capacity places it in the small-scale category for utility solar. Downs Farm Solar plays a role in diversifying North Carolina's energy mix and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. It also helps meet state renewable energy targets and provides clean electricity to the local grid. The facility's location in a rural area minimizes land-use conflicts while supporting environmental sustainability.
Environmental context
Solar PV facilities like Downs Farm Solar have a low environmental impact during operation, with no air emissions or water consumption. However, land use for solar arrays can affect local ecosystems and agricultural land. In North Carolina, solar development is balanced with conservation efforts to minimize habitat disruption. The facility's small footprint reduces visual and land-use impacts compared to larger installations.
Frequently asked questions
Downs Farm Solar is located in North Carolina, United States, at coordinates 36.3619, -76.9169.
Downs Farm Solar has a capacity of 5 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale solar photovoltaic facility.
Downs Farm Solar is owned by Cypress Creek Renewables, a leading solar energy company in the United States.
Solar projects in North Carolina operate under the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the state's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), which requires a percentage of electricity from renewable sources.
Solar PV technology converts sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductor materials. It produces no emissions during operation and has low maintenance costs.