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
