The Indianola Municipal Utilities Solar Project has completed multiple early steps to get ready for the installation of the solar panels. The project, a partnership with Omaha-based Sandhills Energy and the PACE (Powering Affordable Clean Energy) Program from the United States Department of Agriculture, stands on 25 utility-owned acres adjacent to the city’s water department. Its 4.1-megawatt capacity, empowered by First Solar Series 6 photovoltaic panels, will generate up to 6.5 million kilowatt hours of IMU customers’ electricity annually.

Initial work that is completed includes the preparation of the site, installing fences for security, clearing trees, and foundational supports.

Further work includes the installation of further racking systems and solar panels, in addition to electrical wiring. The project is expected to be online in mid-November.