Why Indiana is the Perfect Place for Solar Power
Simply put, Indiana is the right place for solar energy. From our ample sunshine and our position within the electric grid to local demand, all the ingredients make Indiana the perfect place for solar.
Ample Sunshine for Solar
If Indiana has enough sun to grow corn, we have enough sun for solar energy.
Indiana is the 38th state out of 50 by land size, yet fifth in the country for corn production, fourth in soybeans, and fourth in peppermint. Indiana is the eighth largest agricultural exporter in the nation.
The sunlight that boosts Indiana agriculture can do the exact same thing to produce energy from the sun. Most crops can turn 6% of the sun's light into their own energy. Solar panels can turn 15% to 20% of the sun's rays into energy.
Additionally, solar panel technology is advancing every day. Some panels can now absorb solar radiation from direct sunlight, reflected radiation from the ground, and even reflected radiation from clouds.
Indiana is at an Energy Crossroads
Aside from sunlight, there is our location on the electric grid.
Crossroads of America became Indiana's slogan in 1937. Sitting at the hub of two of the largest regional electric transmission systems, we can say we are indeed the energy crossroads of America.
Wind and solar developments benefit from proximity to major transmission lines to deliver the energy they produce. Northern Indiana has especially good lines already in place, and they can handle more power. Indiana can make and sell that power (and use it ourselves, close to our homes).
Just like how Hoosier farmers are better off because of good roads and access to the interstate system, our energy production is co-located with the existing transmission systems running throughout Indiana.
Homegrown, renewable energy is the perfect vehicle for the energy highway – we make it, use it, sell some, and it all benefits our state. Efficiency like this means lower costs for you and me. And we make Indiana more energy independent and do right by America since we make the overall grid more flexible, too.
Renewable Energy is a Cost-saver
Wind and solar energy are the most affordable form of energy available today. In 2020 Hoosiers for Renewables commissioned a study by Ball State University Economist Dr. Michael Hicks who said that wind and solar were the most affordable form of energy for Hoosiers. Amazingly, the cost savings with wind, solar, and battery storage are even stronger today, according to the global consulting firm Lazard, which tracks energy prices.
In today's global marketplace, wind and solar energy are the most affordable and cost-competitive forms of energy, providing savings for Hoosiers and Hoosier businesses. Indiana has the right solar potential, the right place in the energy network, and the right cost, which is why Hoosier companies are demanding more renewable energy.
Hoosier Businesses Demand Renewables
Indiana's largest employers are demanding more renewable energy. Salesforce, Roche and Cummins (and many more) demand that Hoosier utilities provide clean energy to power their businesses. Growing manufacturers building EVs, microchips and batteries all require access to renewables when locating a new plant.
With ample sunshine to produce the energy and the transmission infrastructure already in place to deliver the power, we have the right resources to meet these demands, which in turn helps grow our economy and create new jobs for Hoosiers.
Why is Indiana the right place for solar? We have the sunshine, location, affordability, and demand. There is no better place than the Hoosier State.
