LIMA, OH — October 10, 2025 — The City of Lima has officially begun construction on a first-of-its-kind floating solar energy project at Twin Lakes Reservoir. This initiative will power the city’s Water Treatment Plant using renewable energy generated from more than 3,400 solar panels floating on the surface of the reservoir.
The public is invited to watch the groundbreaking ceremony live on the City of Lima’s Facebook page at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 23. Officials will be onsite to explain how the project will operate and how it benefits the local community.
Project Overview
Energy Output: The system will generate approximately 2 megawatts (MW) of clean electricity using 3,444 photovoltaic (PV) modules. Cost Efficiency: Over its lifetime, the project is expected to save the City of Lima nearly $10 million in energy costs. Emissions Reduction: By offsetting more than 2,500 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, the project significantly reduces the city’s environmental footprint. Funding: The project is partially funded by a $2.5 million grant to support local clean energy infrastructure.
Developed in partnership with clean energy firm D3Energy, the solar array is mounted on floating platforms atop the reservoir rather than consuming valuable land space—an innovative approach that also reduces water evaporation and helps stabilize the reservoir’s temperatures.
Why this Matters
Solar power is one of the most accessible and scalable forms of renewable energy available today. It provides a long-term solution to rising energy costs, reduces dependence on fossil fuels, and cuts harmful emissions that contribute to climate change and air pollution.
For Lima, the project represents more than just utility savings. The water treatment plant is one of the city’s largest energy consumers. Powering it with solar energy directly lowers operational costs while setting an example of environmental responsibility for other mid-sized cities in Ohio and across the Midwest.
This project also positions Lima as a forward-thinking city committed to sustainability, infrastructure modernization, and long-term community resilience.
Community Voices and Future Ideas
In response to the announcement, local residents have expressed support while proposing additional ideas. One commenter suggested the city consider installing solar panels over public parking lots—a move that would create shaded parking while avoiding the need to clear additional land for solar installations.
Event Details
What: Groundbreaking ceremony for Lima’s floating solar project When: Thursday, October 23 at 9:30 a.m. Where: Twin Lakes Reservoir, Lima, Ohio How to Watch: Live stream available on the City of Lima’s Facebook page
Reported by Lima Voices
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