In 2018, SWACO retained Arcadis to conduct a land feasibility study for the Franklin County Model Landfill, which was closed in 1985 and later served as the site of the Phoenix Links Golf Course until 2015. The study found that the brownfield site could accommodate a solar project that could produce a significant amount of renewable energy.
SWACO is currently seeking a partner to help convert the site into a solar energy source that will serve three goals: 1) offset operating costs at the closed Model Landfill, 2) keep tipping fees competitive at the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill, and 3) provide renewable energy to surrounding businesses and communities. SWACO will announce the selected solar vendor and additional details about the project in the coming weeks.
In the meantime, SWACO hired CDM Partners to develop an economic development plan that includes the solar project. The plan will also guide SWACO’s efforts to support local businesses and communities and to increase waste diversion resources for Central Ohio as its population grows.