Solar - First Electric Cooperative

First Electric Cooperative dedicates one-megawatt solar field in Benton

Jacksonville, Ark., May 31, 2017 – First Electric Cooperative Corporation, Inc. (FECC) of Jacksonville dedicated a one-megawatt solar field in Benton on May 31.

“First Electric is dedicated to providing our members with safe, reliable electricity in a cost-effective manner,” said Don Crabbe, CEO/president of FECC. “Our board works to meet the needs of our membership both today and in the future. Our members will all share in the benefits from the renewable energy produced by the solar field.”

FECC board of directors officially commissioned into production the five-acre solar field located at 8271 Congo Road in Benton. The solar field is projected to generate 47,651,737 kilowatt-hours of non-emitting energy over a 25-year span. In one year, the solar field may reduce as much carbon dioxide as 35,000 trees. At peak production times, the solar field may produce enough renewable energy to power 100 to 125 homes.

In addition to providing renewable solar energy to its members, FECC plans to use the solar field as an educational opportunity for field trips for local school groups and organizations.