~ First-of-its-kind county project will save Fairfax County millions over time ~
FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA - The largest solar installation in Fairfax County will soon be operational at the I-95 Landfill Complex. On May 28, at 10 a.m., the public is invited to attend as Fairfax County and Madison Energy Infrastructure celebrate the completion of a massive 5.0-megawatt solar array, constructed on 37 acres of previously unused land at 9850 Furnace Road in Lorton. In addition to being the county’s largest solar project, it also is the first solar array in Virginia built on a closed landfill.
“This ribbon cutting event is more than a ceremonial moment—it’s proof that climate action and fiscal responsibility can go hand in hand,” said John Morrill, director of the Fairfax County Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination.” By turning a capped landfill into a productive solar array, we’re cutting energy costs for taxpayers, strengthening the resilience of our energy supply, and creating a model for future clean energy projects on county land.”
The project will generate enough electricity to power approximately 1000 homes annually. Developed under a 30-year Power Purchase Agreement, the system is expected to deliver approximately $12 million in savings to Fairfax County, while reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 136,000 metric tons.
“This solar array in combination with our ongoing methane gas capture, bird habitat management, rooftop solar, and other site improvements clearly demonstrate our commitment to creating and preserving a sustainable Fairfax County,” said Christopher Herrington, Director of the Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services.
The project marks a milestone in Fairfax County’s clean energy development by:
- Lowering county electricity costs through energy credits from the solar panels, saving taxpayer money
- Expanding the local energy supply and helping to meet growing regional energy demand
- Reducing long-term county operating costs while advancing sustainability and climate goals
- Demonstrating how previously unused landfill areas can be transformed into productive energy infrastructure
- Showcasing effective county interagency coordination between the Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination and the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services
About Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services
The Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) improves public health and the quality of life for residents by building and maintaining safe, reliable infrastructure. Its four business areas are Solid Waste Management, Capital Facilities, Wastewater Management, and Stormwater Management. We work together to create and preserve sustainable communities.
About Madison Energy Infrastructure
Madison Energy Infrastructure is on a mission to modernize energy for industry and communities, where it matters most. Madison’s growing ecosystem and robust portfolio is bolstered by the strength of EQT and our globally renowned capital partners. With a proven track record of successfully executing hundreds of projects, we are unwaveringly focused on exceeding expectations and achieving meaningful results for our partners and customers. Learn more at madisonei.com