ABC27 WHTM Large solar array installed in Lancaster County

Large solar array installed in Lancaster County

One of the largest solar power projects in the state is taking shape in Lancaster County.

When finished, it will be more than 3,000 solar panels covering a three- acre site in Stevens, Lancaster County. A field that used to produce corn will now produce electricity.

"Our primary business is commercial, industrial-sized businesses, and for a facility like this, this one is larger than normal," said Pat Hastings of Dynamic Solar, the Wayne, Pennsylvania company that's doing the project.

It sure is large - 3600 solar panels will provide 20 percent of the power needs for nearby John Martin and Sons Meats. A meat packing business needs lots of electricity for refrigeration. That's why the owners said a large solar array makes business sense for them and they wanted to do it for the environment as well.

 With government tax credits and other incentives, Martin's should be able to pay off the system in about five years.

Dynamic Solar said the solar array will make electricity each year that's equivalent to power used by 65 homes in a year.

The solar project should be finished in May. John Martin and Sons Meats employs 167 people.