Arevon Energy, Inc., a U.S.-based renewable energy developer, has marked a major milestone in the construction of its 124-megawatt Big Muddy Solar Project in Jackson County, Illinois. The $200 million facility, the company’s first utility-scale solar project in Illinois, is expected to generate enough electricity to power more than 24,000 homes when it becomes operational at the end of 2026.
Originally known as Campbell Solar, the project was renamed Big Muddy Solar in recognition of the river that runs through Jackson County. The project also incorporates a local cultural reference in its logo, featuring the outline of Murphysboro’s legendary Big Muddy Monster.
Big Muddy Solar is being built in partnership with Signal Energy and will employ more than 250 workers, including members of local labor unions IBEW Local 702, IUOE Local 318, and Laborers’ International Union Local 773. Construction activities are expected to boost the local economy through increased spending at stores, hotels, and restaurants. The project operates under a long-term virtual power purchase agreement with an American multinational technology company.
In addition to producing domestic renewable energy, the project will support pollinator habitats, turning land beneath and around the solar panels into a safe environment for pollinators and contributing to local ecological sustainability.
Arevon has committed more than $12.6 million in property tax payments over the life of the project, benefiting schools, public safety, and community infrastructure in Jackson County. The company also emphasizes ongoing community engagement, supporting local initiatives in education, food and housing security, public health, and safety. Key partnerships include the Elverado Education Foundation, Murphysboro Education Foundation, Southern Illinois University Carbondale STEM Education Research Center, Victory Dream Center, and multiple local fire and ambulance services.
At a milestone event held on November 18, 2025, Arevon officials and community leaders celebrated the project’s progress. Kevin Smith, CEO of Arevon, highlighted the company’s commitment to delivering both clean energy and economic benefits to the region. Murphysboro Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Dawn McClerren praised the company’s investment and community reinvestment efforts.
Arevon is actively expanding its renewable portfolio in the Midwest, recently commencing operations at its Ratts 1 and Heirloom Solar Projects in Indiana, totaling 264 MWdc, and currently constructing the 430 MWdc Kelso Solar Project in Missouri. The company has also developed and managed construction for the Gibson Solar Project (251 MWdc) and Posey Solar Project (228 MWdc) in Indiana, integrating renewable infrastructure successfully into local communities.
The Big Muddy Solar Project represents a significant step in Arevon’s strategy to provide domestic, sustainable energy while fostering long-term economic growth and community development in the Midwest.
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