Sol Systems has completed the 186-megawatt DC Tilden Solar Project, which is built on over 1,000 acres of land at a former underground coal mine in southern Illinois.

This $345 million project brings new life to lands that have long shaped American energy history, transforming a complex legacy site into a modern clean energy infrastructure that will generate approximately 319 gigawatt-hours of electricity in its first year. These mines closed in the 1990s, leaving the region barren both in terms of natural resources and finances.

Developing solar energy on former underground mines presents unique engineering, environmental, and permitting challenges, including long-term subsidence considerations and coordination with numerous mining rights owners. Through innovative design solutions and close collaboration with technical, regulatory, and community stakeholders, Sol Systems has taken the project from concept to commercial operation.

"Tilden serves as a compelling example that even the most challenging sites in the United States, such as former coal mines, can be reimagined and repurposed as integral components of our clean energy future," said Yuri Horwitz, CEO and founder of Sol Systems. "Sol is committed to creating long-term economic and environmental value for our customers and the communities in which we operate. The Tilden project is part of a portfolio of 1 GW dual-purpose solar projects that Sol will actively operate in partnership with local farmers and stakeholders.". ”

"Tiddlens presents some unique challenges to the team, and we are proud of our team's collaboration, which has made these challenges possible," said Andy Poirot, Vice President of McCarthy Building Companies. "Building on a historic underground mine requires coordination, engineering precision, and problem-solving skills that are not seen in typical solar energy projects. Sol Systems has made this possible.". ”

During the construction process conducted by McCarthy Building Companies, the project created approximately 300 local full-time jobs and is expected to generate combined benefits of $20 million in tax revenue and local impact investment for the community throughout its lifecycle. Nextpower provided a tracking system, while Canadian Solar supplied solar modules. Financing partners included ING as the lender and Churchill Stateside Group as the tax equity investor.

Beyond its operational significance, Tilden highlighted the broader opportunity in the Midwest and other traditional energy regions to transform former industrial and extraction sites into modern infrastructure that supports domestic energy production, while bringing long-term benefits to communities.

The story of the Teide Solar Project is showcased in a short film by Sol Systems, which documents the challenges and breakthroughs faced in completing the project and highlights how technological innovation and community management work together. "Integrity Innovation: The New Life of Teide Mine"