Samsung C&T Plans to Build Massive Solar Power Plant in Indiana, USA

Samsung C&T Corporation is building a massive solar power plant in Indiana, USA. They are tightening the reins on expanding solar development projects, which they have pinpointed as a future growth engine. They are in full swing to leap forward as a global eco-friendly energy company.

According to a report submitted to the Bartholomew County Board of Zoning Appeals on the 27th by Samsung C&T, a subsidiary, Karina Solar, is pushing for a project to build a 100MW commercial solar energy system in the area. They are currently in the approval process and plan to break ground in the second quarter of next year once they secure the necessary permissions.

The solar power plant will be located on approximately 1,886 acres across the townships of Columbus, Sand Creek, and Rock Creek in Bartholomew County. Of the total use area of 1,886 acres, about 1,100 acres belong to the county jurisdiction, and about 800 acres belong to the township jurisdiction. Solar power panels, rack systems, inverters, and underground electrical conduits will be installed.

Samsung C&T has been working on this project since 2022, currently in the approval process. Because the site where the solar power plant will be built is set as farmland, permission from the government and the owner is necessary. Samsung C&T has secured an agreement from 24 real estate owners.

Bartholomew County and Columbus Township will hold public hearings on the 26th and 27th (local time) to review the permit for the Samsung C&T solar project. As the county government planning department staff have recommended approval, Samsung C&T is expected to obtain the permit without any problems. The authorities are expected to decrease residents’ concerns about environmental pollution and noise pollution at the public hearing and emphasize the positive impact that the project will have on the community.

Samsung C&T Corporation is diversifying its eco-friendly business portfolio centered on solar development. Following their success in North America, the largest solar market, they are expanding their stage to Australia, Germany, and more. In September 2022, they established a new renewable energy corporation in Australia and recently formed a task force to enter the German market. They are also shifting their profit model from simple solar power generation to standalone energy storage systems (ESS).

The solar business is indeed becoming the “golden goose” of the Corporation. Despite the worsening performance, the solar company has grown for three consecutive years. The solar development business recorded a disposal asset of 25 million dollars in the fourth quarter of last year, marking an increase for three consecutive years (22 million dollars in 2021 → 48 million dollars in 2022, → 58 million dollars in 2023).