CPV Backbone Solar
Project Quick Facts
Location: Garrett County, Maryland
System Information: 500+ Watt Solar Modules
Total Installed Capacity: 160 MWac
In Operation Since: Q4 2025
200+
Construction Jobs
$300 Million
Investment
45,000
Equivalent Cars off the Road
Project Overview
CPV Backbone Solar (CPV Backbone) is located in Garrett County, Maryland. Situated on a reclaimed, decommissioned coal mine, it is the largest solar project in the state.
The project’s 160-megawatt (MWac) capacity will produce enough energy to power 30,000 homes. CPV Backbone will avoid over 200,000 tons of CO2 per year by displacing older less efficient generation while adding diversity to the region’s energy mix.
A planned second phase has started construction, Backbone Solar Part 2, and is projected to expand the facility’s total installed capacity to 175 MWac.
Community Benefits
- Major private infrastructure investment of over $300 million.
- Significant new local tax base with opportunity to shape revenue to provide long-term benefit to Garrett County.
- Local businesses will benefit from increased commerce from the project and workers during construction.
- Creates over 200 jobs created during the construction phase (14-18 months.) Local firms and individuals will be engaged for engineering, surveying, site preparation, and construction. Inspection and maintenance during operation will also create jobs locally.
- Solar power helps stabilize electricity prices year-round, particularly during costly summer months.
Environmental Benefits
- Repurposes a former coal strip mine, transforming a site with few alternative uses into a productive asset, while also contributing to the diversification of Garrett County’s energy sources.
- Expands renewable resources, sustains local environmental quality, and helps combat climate change.
- CPV Backbone Solar is a proud supporter of the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation, having committed $100,000 over four years to help finance projects and initiatives to preserve and protect the Deep Creek Watershed.
Project Resources
