Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A 20-year agreement has been signed by the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance with a firm responsible for a big solar project in Springfield and Sangamon County.

According to a news release, the “Community Benefit Agreement” between SSGA and Swift Current Energy — operator of Double Black Diamond Solar — will invest $5 million in the area over the next 20 years.  It will “support community priorities such as economic development, support for the arts and culture initiatives, and educational partnerships and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programming.”

The news release says an advisory committee of community and Swift Current representatives will oversee what the money will go to.

“Swift Current Energy’s ongoing investment and commitment to Sangamon County is a testament to this incredible community we’ve built here and a symbol of innovation, partnership, and a shared vision for the future,” said Ryan McCrady, SSGA CEO, in a news release.

The 800 megawatt solar project, roughly 30 miles west of Springfield, became energized at the end of April.  The City of Chicago and several of Cook County-area entities are reportedly customers and are drawing power from what has been referred to as the largest solar project east of the Mississippi River, according to media reports.

The $5 million is in addition to $100 million in property tax revenue “over the life of the project” for Sangamon and Morgan Counties.

“Double Black Diamond Solar represents a significant investment in Sangamon and Morgan Counties, and we are proud to continue showing up for the community in lasting ways,” said Matt Birchby, President and Co-founder, Swift Current Energy, also in a news release.

WTAX has invited McCrady and Birchby to appear on the WTAX Morning Newswatch to talk more about the initiative.