A retired coal mine in western Maryland has just been reborn as the state’s largest solar energy project — the CPV Backbone Solar farm. This landmark transformation represents a powerful symbol of America’s ongoing shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

A Renewable Powerhouse

With 160 megawatts of capacity and more than 324,000 solar panels, the CPV Backbone Solar installation now generates clean electricity for approximately 30,000 homes. What was once discarded industrial land has been revitalized into a renewable energy hub, proving that brownfield sites can be repurposed to serve communities in new and sustainable ways.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Beyond clean energy, the project delivers tangible benefits to Garrett County. It creates new jobs, generates tax revenue, and provides long‑term economic stability for the region. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), large‑scale solar projects like Backbone Solar not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also stimulate local economies by attracting investment and infrastructure development.

A Model for Brownfield Transformation

The conversion of a former coal mine into a solar farm highlights the potential of brownfield redevelopment. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has long advocated for turning contaminated or abandoned industrial sites into renewable energy projects, noting that such transformations reduce land waste while supporting clean power goals. Maryland’s success story could serve as a model for other states seeking to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.

Looking Ahead

And this is only the beginning. Expansion plans are already underway, signaling that the CPV Backbone Solar farm may grow even larger in the coming years. As demand for renewable energy continues to rise, projects like this will play a crucial role in meeting state and national climate targets. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that solar power will become the world’s leading source of electricity by 2050 if current growth trends continue.

A Brighter Future for Maryland

For Garrett County residents, the solar farm represents more than just panels and megawatts. It is a promise of a cleaner, healthier environment, a stronger local economy, and a future where energy production aligns with sustainability. From coal to clean, Maryland is showing how communities can reinvent themselves for the challenges of the 21st century.

References (plain text):

• U.S. Department of Energy – Benefits of large‑scale solar projects (2024)

• Environmental Protection Agency – Brownfield redevelopment and renewable energy initiatives (2023)

• International Energy Agency – Global solar power growth projections (2024)

• Maryland Matters – Coverage of CPV Backbone Solar farm launch (2025)

• Utility Dive – Analysis of U.S. solar expansion and regional impacts (2025)