Ohio City Floats Solar Farm on Drinking Water Reservoir

Lima, Ohio, has completed a significant floating solar project on its Twin Lakes Reservoir, installing 3,120 solar panels across approximately 3.6 acres of water. This 2-megawatt array, which feeds electricity to the city's water treatment plant, is anticipated to save close to $10 million in energy expenses over its operational life.

The system utilizes Ciel & Terre's Hydrelio floating technology, designed to withstand changing water levels and comply with standards for materials in contact with drinking water. This approach offers a compelling alternative to land-based solar farms, which would require considerably more acreage.

While the initial project cost was about $5.3 million, federal incentives significantly offset nearly half of this expense. This financial support is crucial context for other municipalities considering similar ventures. The successful implementation in Lima could inspire wider adoption of floating solar technology across the United States, with a technical potential estimated in the hundreds of gigawatts on federal reservoirs alone.

The long-term financial benefit for residents remains a key question. While the city anticipates substantial savings, how these savings will be allocated—whether to infrastructure, other expenses, or directly to utility bills—is yet to be determined. This aspect highlights the need for public inquiry into the full financial implications for the community.