Arevon Energy, Inc. marked a major milestone in the construction of its 124 MW Big Muddy Solar Project, a $200 million investment that will deliver American-made renewable energy and long-term economic benefits to Jackson County, Illinois. The facility is expected to power more than 24,000 homes once it reaches commercial operation at the end of 2026.
Formerly known as Campbell Solar, the project was renamed Big Muddy Solar—a tribute to the historic river that defines the region. Even the project’s logo salutes local culture with the outline of Murphysboro’s legendary Big Muddy Monster, underscoring the company’s desire to invest in both renewable power and regional identity.
Arevon will fully own and operate the utility-scale facility, which represents its first entry into Illinois’ solar energy market. Construction alone will support more than 250 workers, many from regional labor unions including IBEW Local 702, IUOE Local 318, and LIUNA Local 773. Spending during construction is expected to benefit local hotels, restaurants, retailers, and service providers.
Once operating, the site will generate more than $12.6 million in property taxes, bolstering schools, public safety agencies, and local infrastructure for decades.
During a public milestone celebration on November 18, local officials, landowners, business leaders, and educators joined Arevon to recognize how the solar investment aligns with growing energy demand and community priorities.
“Big Muddy Solar's impactful investment delivers real value for businesses and families in Jackson County, and Arevon is pleased to be a part of this community for decades to come,” said Kevin Smith, Arevon’s CEO. He emphasized that rising energy use nationwide increases the importance of domestic, utility-scale renewables: “This facility will not only generate essential, domestically produced energy … but it will also strengthen the region through tax revenue and continued community engagement.”
Local leaders applauded the company’s sustained commitment beyond power production. “We're grateful for Arevon's commitment to Jackson County, not only through solar energy production but the meaningful community reinvestment that will benefit local families, schools, and organizations for many years,” said Dawn McClerren, Murphysboro Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Director.
Arevon has already contributed to a wide range of Jackson County programs, from STEM education initiatives to food security, emergency response agencies, and youth programs. Organizations benefiting so far include:
“Arevon's commitment to renewable innovation goes beyond generating solar power — it's about empowering the next generation in our local communities,” said Dr. Harvey Henson of SIUC. He praised how Big Muddy’s support helps students develop the technical curiosity and skills needed for the future energy workforce.
Victory Dream Center Director Nathan Cherry added that the company’s donation is a crucial boost for families facing hardship: “We appreciate Arevon's willingness to care for those who are often not seen or noticed in our community.”
In addition to generating clean power above ground, Big Muddy Solar will support pollinator-friendly plantings beneath and around its arrays, fostering biodiversity and protecting soil health. The habitat will benefit bees and pollinating species essential to American agriculture.
Big Muddy Solar joins Arevon’s multi-state push in the Midwest. The company recently completed nearly 264 MWdc in Indiana, is constructing 430 MWdc in Missouri, and has led additional development across the region.
With more than 5.5 GW of operational capacity nationwide and billions invested in U.S. energy infrastructure, Arevon continues to expand its role in powering an American-made renewable future.
Originally reported by Arevon in PR Newswire.
