60 MW Solar Facility Coming to McCracken County

September 19, 2025

Greater Paducah Economic Development announced today that a 60-megawatt solar facility is being built in McCracken County, Kentucky, generating long-term economic benefits for the region The project will generate enough renewable energy to power the equivalent of approximately 10,000 homes annually. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with commercial operations expected in 2028.

At peak construction, the project is expected to create approximately 150 jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy. Over its lifetime, the project is projected to generate an estimated $7 million in tax revenue for McCracken County and the State of Kentucky, supporting public services, schools, and infrastructure. AES, the developer and owner/operator of the facility, has also committed to investing in the communities where it operates and has already begun supporting local non-profits and community organizations in the region.

McCracken Solar will be located on 615 acres of privately held land. The project offers landowners the opportunity to diversify income while keeping property in family ownership. A comprehensive decommissioning plan has also been established to ensure that, at the end of the project’s operational life, the land can be restored to pre-project conditions.

Johanna Kraus-Darden, Development Director for AES said, "AES is excited to continue to collaborate with Greater Paducah Economic Development on the construction of McCracken Solar. This innovative solar facility reflects our commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy, while creating meaningful economic opportunities for McCracken County. We look forward to continuing to work alongside local leaders and community members to bring this project to life.”

“We are excited to welcome AES to our community,” stated Bruce Wilcox, President & CEO of Greater Paducah Economic Development. “Beyond renewable energy, they are proving to be a great partner through their investment in local organizations and our schools. We look forward to the positive impact this project will have on our region for years to come.”

Judge Executive Craig Clymer shares his support of the project: “The McCracken Solar project will be a great fit for our county in providing a solar power ‘piece’ to complement our other power generation projects, now and in the future. Our zoning requirements will assure that the project will situate well within our county landscape and provide landowners with lucrative opportunities for their land for decades.”

“Solar is an important source of renewable energy, and we are excited to announce the development of AES’ 60-megawatt solar facility here in McCracken County,” said Paducah Mayor George Bray. “This project represents our vision for our community with new jobs, economic growth, and a commitment to clean, renewable energy. We look forward to the positive impact this facility will have on our local economy and environment for many years to come.” 

For more information visit: www.aes.com/kentucky/project/mccracken-solar