General

OPPD finds ‘responsible path forward’ for solar project 

A Nebraska-based renewable energy developer is joining forces with OPPD to take ownership of a proposed utility-scale solar project in York County. 

Sandhills Energy is assuming responsibility for K-Junction LLC and subsequent development work for K-Junction Solar under a new agreement with OPPD. 

“This agreement provides OPPD a responsible path forward while allowing an experienced Nebraska developer to move ahead with the project,” said Joe Lang, director of OPPD’s Generation Strategy and Origination team. “Even though OPPD is no longer directly developing this project, we look forward to a productive relationship with Sandhills Energy as their work progresses and we will continue to support the project’s success.” 

Sandhills Energy has tackled a variety of Nebraska energy projects since 2012. 

“Sandhills Energy has worked alongside local leaders and rural communities across the Midwest to bring renewable energy projects to life,” said Sandhills Energy President Eric Johnson. “We understand that every community is different, and we look forward to working with the people and stakeholders of York County to discuss how renewable energy can support local goals while respecting the values of the people who live there.” 

‘Honoring the work’

The transaction came after York County’s board approved stringent new zoning regulations for solar projects that made development substantially more difficult. 

OPPD announced in April that it was allowing its Generator Interconnection Agreement for K-Junction to expire. The agreement was essentially a placeholder spot in the multi-year queue for approval by the Southwest Power Pool to connect to the larger regional grid. 

“We made this decision to protect our customers from further regulatory uncertainty while still honoring the work that’s already been done,” Lang said. 

Lang said the utility looks forward to future opportunities to collaborate. 

OPPD started pursuing the K-Junction project in 2023 after acquiring it from EDF Renewables. The project at the time held strong potential to connect up to 310 megawatts of solar and battery storage capacity, all while generating $610 million in net economic development and $30 million in local tax revenue for the community.