The Bluestown Solar project in Jefferson Davis and Lawrence Counties has been approved by the Mississippi Public Service Commission.

A hearing pertaining to the construction and operation was held at the Jefferson Davis County Courthouse in April to hear objections to the project.

It was presided over by the Southern District Public Service Commissioner Wayne Carr.

It is a statutory requirement that the Mississippi Public Service Commission hold a hearing. No objections to the project were filed and there has been no negative feedback from the landowners.

Bluestown Solar will be developed by Apex Clean Energy and is expected to power 41,200 homes each year.

Over 300 jobs will be generated during construction of the plant which will begin in 2026 and continue for 18 months.

“I am thankful this community has decided to do this,” said Commissioner Carr. “It will not only bring revenue into this community, but also to the state,” he said.

Tax revenue for Jefferson Davis and Lawrence Counties is expected to be 65 million dollars over the first 30 years of the project’s life.

There was much discussion regarding the care and removal of the solar panels should the become damaged. The panels are made of metal and steel and are highly recyclable. Each solar panel has a 30-year manufacturer’s warranty and can be tracked with a barcode. If any panel needs to be replaced, it will be recycled.

“This benefits Mississippi and Mississippi is on the move,” said Commissioner Carr. “This will be a positive avenue for all of us,” he said. 

Carr questioned Apex representatives about their responsibility in decommissioning the facility should that be necessary. “We want to make sure the landowners are protected as well as the members of this community; we take it very seriously,” he said.

Land for the project is leased from private landowners and each landowner’s income stream is guaranteed.

“This is another step forward for Jeff Davis County, in the short term as well as the long term” said Economic Development Director Gary Bass. “There will be a huge economic impact from the construction phase and an ongoing impact from the solar company itself,” he said.

The general public will not have access to the facility as it will be surrounded by secure fencing.

The Jefferson Davis County Board of Supervisors filed a Resolution of Support of Bluestown Solar with the PSC.

“The county needs to get ready for 18 months of solar field workers, starting with hiring event,” said Bass.

There will be a continuing need for goods and services and housing for workers.

“The build out will end with 10 full-time, good paying jobs with good benefits for employees that are willing to show up for work and can pass a drug test,” said Bass.

The Mississippi Public Service Commission regulates utilities, including electric, gas, water, sewer, and telecommunications.

They also have a docket for regular meetings, which may include filings like resolutions of support, and can be viewed on their website.