CPV plans to develop 175 MW Backbone solar project in Garrett County

Competitive Power Ventures (CPV) plans to file an application with the State of Maryland for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) to construct and operate the 175 MWac Backbone Solar Farm in the Old Line State’s westernmost county.

Backbone is proposed to be built on former Vindex/Arch Coal mining sites just north of Kitzmiller. The mines closed recently after decades of operation during which they served as a major economic driver for the region. The project will be sited on approximately 1,100 acres of the former mine property and generate enough emission-free electricity to power approximately 30,000 average Maryland homes.

CPV has been conducting environmental, geotechnical, electrical, and engineering studies on the property since early 2020. The start of construction is planned for early 2022 with the start of operations targeted for mid-2023. The project helps Maryland to meet its clean energy targets of 14.5 percent solar energy by 2028 and 50 percent renewable energy by 2030.