Joe Wheeler EMC Opens Solar Installation

Trinity, AL Dec. 11 – Joe Wheeler EMC (JWEMC) is excited to announce the opening of its first solar installation in partnership with Peak Solarworks, LLC. This innovative project will generate clean, renewable energy directly into the JWEMC grid, offering cost savings and supporting sustainable energy efforts.

The seven-acre facility, located at the intersection of County Road 222 and Cooperage Way, sits directly across from the new First Solar manufacturing facility and exclusively uses American-made First Solar Series 7 solar panels.

“This solar farm utilizes property owned by JWEMC that was previously unused, allowing us to purchase power at a lower cost than currently available through our normal TVA supply,” said Ken McGee, Director of Engineering at Joe Wheeler EMC. “This project will help us better control some of our energy costs for the next years with the added benefit of being a good corporate neighbor with the new First Solar manufacturing plant.”

Gene Kanikovsky, JWEMC General Manager and CEO, emphasized the broader impact of this project:
“The Joe Wheeler EMC 1MW solar installation represents more than a step toward renewable energy; it showcases our cooperative’s commitment to leading local economic development. We take immense pride in this milestone for Joe Wheeler EMC, where at every stage—from panel manufacturing to construction, renewable energy generation, and final energy consumption—happens right here in Lawrence County, North Alabama. Our members are the ultimate beneficiaries, gaining access to lower energy costs and expanded energy options. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners, including TVA, First Solar, Peak Solarworks, and our dedicated local leaders, especially the Joe Wheeler EMC Board of Trustees.”

The facility features 2,664 First Solar Series 7 Modules, five Solectria XGI 1500-200/200-480-DCG Inverters, and an Array Technologies DuraTrack Tracker system. It is designed to produce over 2 million kWh of electricity annually—enough to power approximately 125 to 150 homes each year.

Peak Solarworks: A Trusted Partner
Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, Peak Solarworks specializes in distributed solar projects across the Southeastern United States. The company, founded by solar industry pioneers, is committed to delivering cost-effective, reliable solar energy solutions to communities and businesses.

"We are thrilled to partner with Joe Wheeler EMC to bring clean, renewable energy to their membership,” said Katherine Porges, President of Peak Solarworks. “A key component of this high-performance solar plant are the American-made modules manufactured by First Solar. We are excited to be a part of this success story among Joe Wheeler EMC, First Solar, and the community of Lawrence County.”

This project not only advances JWEMC’s renewable energy initiatives but also strengthens its commitment to delivering affordable, reliable energy solutions to the more than 40,000 members it serves in Lawrence and Morgan counties.