University of Arkansas to launch solar site in what it calls ‘state’s largest project’
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — The University of Arkansas will mark Earth Day with a public unveiling of a solar facility tied to what it describes as the largest commercial solar project in Arkansas history.
The event is set for 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 22, at 8200 W. Wedington Drive. According to a news release, the west Fayetteville site is one of more than 20 solar power plants included in a systemwide development that spans the state and is already partially online.
The facility currently supplies power to the university’s Cato Springs Research Center. Additional sites in the network are expected to come online later in 2026.
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The project stems from a 2022 solar services agreement between the University of Arkansas System and Scenic Hill Solar. Under the agreement, Scenic Hill Solar designed, installed and operates the systems, while the university purchases the electricity at a fixed rate.
The arrangement is intended to stabilize long-term energy costs, reduce upfront capital expenses and advance systemwide sustainability goals, including carbon neutrality by 2040. The Fayetteville campus accounts for more than half of the system’s total energy production, according to the university.
The university described the initiative as one of the largest of its kind in U.S. higher education, with environmental and financial impacts expected over the next 25 years.
The event will include a ribbon-cutting, tours of the installation and light refreshments. Organizers said attendees can RSVP by email at sustain@uark.edu, and parking will be available along the east side of N. Riches Road.
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