Arevon Energy breaks ground on Kelso Solar Project

Shovels have hit the dirt as renewable energy developer Arevon Energy broke ground on the 430-megawatt Kelso Solar Project on Wednesday, April 30.

Officials from Arevon, local municipalities and economic development groups assembled at the 2,500-acre site north of Blodgett to break ground.

“Kelso Solar marks Arevon’s entrance into Missouri and when operational, will boost the state’s installed solar capacity by almost 50 percent. This major project furthers Arevon’s growing presence in the Midwest region of the United States, which is a priority market for our company’s development activities,” Kevin Smith, Arevon’s chief executive officer, said.

Throughout its decades-long operation, the project will disburse some $34 million to local governments in support of schools, infrastructure and first responders, officials said.

“Arevon’s Kelso Solar has already provided substantial economic benefits to our community,” Marcie Lawson, president of the Sikeston Regional Chamber and Economic Development Corporation, said. “Projects like these not only ensure affordable, reliable energy, but also create jobs and boost revenue streams. We appreciate the partnership with Arevon and look forward to Kelso Solar advancing toward operations.”