30 Oct 2023 North Little Rock hosts groundbreaking for solar array project

NORTH LITTLE ROCK — Today’s Power, Inc. (TPI), a local renewable energy solutions provider, and North Little Rock Electric Department (NLRED), marked a significant milestone today as they celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony for a 5MW solar array project that will bring clean and sustainable energy to residents. 

North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “We are excited to bring additional renewable energy to our city,” he said. “Along with hydropower and methane gas, solar will help keep North Little Rock Electric’s rates affordable while being environmentally responsible. It’s partnerships like these that make us one of the most innovative municipal-owned utilities in Arkansas.”

The groundbreaking occurred at the project site, located off Industry Drive in North Little Rock. Key stakeholders, government officials, and representatives from TPI and the NLRED attended the event. This momentous occasion marked the beginning of an innovative partnership to enhance the region’s energy infrastructure and promote environmental sustainability.

TPI’s President/CEO, Derek Dyson, is pleased that NLRED, the North Little Rock Mayor and City Council support TPI’s vision of bringing low-cost renewable energy to the community where TPI’s headquarters is located. “TPI’s goals continue to be to develop, build, own and operate renewable projects that benefit local communities,” Dyson said. “Our business model started here in Arkansas for the benefit of the electric cooperatives, and we look forward to utilizing the lessons learned there in providing the North Little Rock municipality with similar benefits of a solar facility to contribute in keeping energy costs low for the businesses and citizens served by NLRED.” 

The 5MW solar array project is expected to be completed by quarter four of 2024, with construction commencing in January. Once operational, it will generate clean electricity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a brighter and more sustainable future for North Little Rock.

“This is an investment in our environment and economy,” said Derrell Hartwick, president and CEO, of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce. “Solar power will be essential for helping sustain the energy demands of new businesses and citizens moving to our city. Thank you to the City of North Little Rock’s leadership and Today’s Power for bringing this great project to North Little Rock.”