September 17, 2026

OEC Statement on Approval of Oak Run Solar Project

For Immediate Release:  

 September 17, 2026 

Contact:  

Karlena Wallace, Communications Director  

Media@theoec.org or 614-487-7506  

OEC Statement on Approval of Oak Run Solar Project 

Columbus, Ohio — Today’s decision is an important step forward for one of Ohio’s most significant energy projects. Oak Run will bring 800 megawatts of solar generation and 300 megawatts of battery storage to the state. Ohio is facing rapidly growing electricity demand, and projects like Oak Run Solar demonstrate how energy production and agriculture can coexist through innovative agrivoltaics.  

Oak Run has undergone years of extensive public and regulatory review, including additional scrutiny ordered by the Ohio Supreme Court. Today’s decision underscores the importance of an evidence-based siting process—one that takes community concerns seriously while also fully considering a project’s benefits to Ohioans.  

The following quote can be attributed, in whole or in part, to Nolan Rutschilling, Managing Director of Energy Policy for the Ohio Environmental Council (OEC):  

“At a moment when Ohio needs more electricity generation to lower costs, projects like Oak Run can help meet growing demand while bringing substantial investment and economic opportunity to local communities. Oak Run is a great example of where solar, agriculture, and battery storage can not only cross over, but thrive while doing so.”

  

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The Ohio Environmental Council (OEC) protects the environment and health of all Ohio communities through legal and policy advocacy, decision-maker accountability, and civic engagement.