In a groundbreaking demonstration of environmental transformation, Maryland has turned an abandoned coal mine into a cutting-edge solar power generation site that promises to energize thousands of homes while breathing new economic life into a once-dormant landscape.

CPV Renewable Power recently unveiled the CPV Backbone Solar project in Garrett County, a 160-megawatt facility spanning a reclaimed mining area. The ambitious project features 324,000 solar panels strategically positioned to generate electricity for approximately 30,000 households, marking a significant milestone in the state's renewable energy journey.

Sherman Knight, CEO of CPV, emphasized the project's broader significance, stating that the initiative exemplifies their commitment to responsible energy transition. By repurposing exhausted industrial land, the company is showcasing how innovative engineering and strategic partnerships can successfully address complex environmental and energy challenges.

Mike Resca, Executive Vice President of CPV Renewable Power, highlighted the project's economic benefits for Garrett County. Not only does the solar facility generate substantial tax revenue, but it also represents a forward-thinking approach to land use and energy production that supports local communities.

The project's potential doesn't stop at its current configuration. A second development phase is already underway, which is expected to expand the total project capacity to 175 megawatts. This expansion is part of a broader 4.8 gigawatt project pipeline, signaling CPV's long-term commitment to renewable energy infrastructure.

Local leaders have enthusiastically endorsed the project. Delegate Jim Hinebaugh, Jr. expressed excitement about returning previously mined land to productive use, while Garrett County Board Chairman Paul Edwards praised the initiative as a 'win-win' that preserves natural beauty while creating economic opportunities.

The CPV Backbone Solar project stands as a powerful testament to the ongoing transformation of America's energy landscape. By converting a former coal mining site into a solar power generator, it symbolizes hope, innovation, and a sustainable path forward for communities traditionally dependent on fossil fuel industries.

As demand for electricity continues to grow, projects like CPV Backbone Solar demonstrate that renewable energy is not just an alternative, but an increasingly logical and economically viable solution for powering our future.