Invenergy unveils 99 megawatt solar project plan in Kittitas County

On February 26, 2025, Kittitas County officials convened to discuss the proposed Schnebly Coulee solar project, a significant renewable energy initiative by Invenergy. The meeting highlighted the project's potential economic and environmental impacts, as well as its alignment with county regulations.

Avi Light, a representative from Invenergy, presented details about the solar facility, which is planned to generate 99 megawatts of energy—enough to power over 19,000 homes. The project is expected to create between 250 to 300 construction jobs, all union positions, and 1 to 2 permanent jobs during its operational phase. Light emphasized the project's contribution to local tax revenue, estimating approximately $17 million over its 25-year lifespan.

The project site spans 1,300 acres, with 695 acres designated as buildable. Light noted that the facility's location in solar overlay Zone 3 aligns with Kittitas County's land use policies, which aim to balance renewable energy development with agricultural preservation. The county had previously lifted a moratorium on solar projects in 2018, establishing guidelines for their development.

Environmental considerations were also a focal point of the discussion. Invenergy has conducted extensive studies to assess the project's impact on local wildlife and habitats, coordinating with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to minimize ecological disruption. The company plans to implement wildlife-permeable fencing and has committed to placing 1,400 acres under conservation easement to protect the land from future development.

The meeting also addressed community engagement, with Invenergy highlighting its contributions to local organizations, including donations to Kittitas Public Schools and Kittitas Valley Fire and Rescue. Light expressed the company's commitment to working closely with the community throughout the project's development.

As the meeting concluded, officials and community members were invited to ask questions, particularly regarding concerns about the project's visibility and its integration into the local landscape. The discussions underscored the importance of renewable energy initiatives in Kittitas County, reflecting a broader trend towards sustainable development while addressing local economic needs. The next steps will involve further community input and regulatory reviews as the project moves forward.