The 177-megawatt Richley Solar Project in Lackawanna County, Tennessee, is now operational for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Located approximately 100 miles north of Memphis, the project was designed by LRE.
Ridgely Solar began its development in 2020 and created approximately 700 jobs during the construction process. LRE's engineering team collaborated with Nextracker and First Solar, and continues to maintain long-term partnerships with these two leading American companies. Nextracker's NX Horizon-XTR terrain-following solar tracking system, as well as First Solar's thin-film solar modules, provide industry-leading performance and reliability.
"Ridgely Solar is a significant milestone for LRE's first project in Tennessee," said Eran Mahrer, Chief Commercial Officer of LRE. "This project provides reliable energy, drives investment in Lake County, and demonstrates our role as a community partner by supporting local priorities. Furthermore, by establishing long-term relationships with American technology leaders, prioritizing domestic employment and manufacturing, and integrating innovative solutions that reduce impact and accelerate deployment, Ridgely showcases a forward-thinking project that strengthens the communities where we operate and contributes to our country's long-term energy security.". ”
In addition to providing reliable and affordable energy, Ridgely Solar has become a partner of the Lake County community, supporting initiatives that enhance education, safety, and family well-being. Through the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Northwest, the project has funded scholarships, helped build an inclusive playground for children with disabilities, and supported local flood relief efforts in the Red Cross's South Central region. Ridgely Solar has also provided public safety infrastructure for first responders and resources to The Nest, a daycare center at Margaret Newton Elementary School that provides free childcare services to local families.
"Projects like Ridgely Solar have had a lasting impact on our community," said Lake County Mayor Danny Cook. "This project expands opportunities, supports the long-term growth of Lake County, and provides reliable energy to the region."