Frequently Asked Questions

Ampliform is a Pennsylvania-based company that originates, develops, constructs, and operates grid-connected, utility-scale solar generation and solar+energy storage facilities in the United States. Ampliform has successfully developed multiple gigawatts of solar projects, demonstrating our capability and commitment to drive the clean energy transition in the US. Our projects not only support energy independence but also contribute to local economies and ecosystems. For more information please visit www.ampliform.com.  

Ampliform is developing the Black Moshannon Solar project to repurpose the historic mine lands into a source of sustainable energy. Our team recognizes the history of the land as an economic pillar for local families and aims to repurpose it in a way that continues to benefit the community. This project marks a commitment to preserving local heritage while embracing future opportunities.

Black Moshannon Solar is carefully planned with awareness of the environmental challenges linked to previous land uses. The project team will collaborate closely with local stakeholders and organizations on the installation of solar panels to minimize the affect of any future efforts at remediation to reduce the impacts of mine drainage. The Environmental and Energy Study Institute states that generating renewable energy on reclaimed mine land encourages ecosystem restoration, and in fact, repurposing reclaimed mine lands for solar projects can aid in further land rehabilitation, improving habitat conditions and reducing previous land use impacts.

Ampliform is committed to improving water quality in the Moshannon Creek watershed by addressing pollution from historic mining activities. Our efforts include:
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• Partnership and Testing: In partnership with the Moshannon Creek Watershed Association, Ampliform has funded initial testing of Wolf Run to identify pollution sources and develop solutions.
• Stormwater Management: We will conduct detailed overburden drilling and testing to manage stormwater runoff, using methods like directing runoff through limestone-lined channels to reduce acidity. Additionally, native grasses will be planted to stabilize cleared areas and absorb runoff, allowing for long-term water quality improvement.

Black Moshannon Solar will create new, long-term sources of revenue for the community, including significant benefits for local schools. The project understands the history of this land as a source of jobs and livelihood for many here in Centre County and wants to turn the page by repurposing this older mine land into something that can benefit the community once again. To learn more about solar energy benefits, please visit our Benefits page.

Solar energy is widely recognized as one of the safest forms of electricity generation. The Fire Protection Association states that the fire risk associated with solar panels is extremely low. Additionally, the Solar Energy Industries Association states that toxic leakage is not possible from crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells, even in the unlikely event that the cells should be cracked or damaged. Solar panels are quiet, and silicon-based solar panels contain no hazardous waste. In addition, all utility-scale electric generation facilities are highly regulated at the local, state, and federal level so that they operate safely and reliably.

Yes, photovoltaic panels can use direct or indirect sunlight to generate power. The Solar Energy Industries Association states that though they are most effective in direct sunlight, solar panels will still work even when the light is reflected or partially blocked by clouds. In addition, rain can help keep panels operating efficiently by washing away any dust or dirt.

The Energy Market Authority states that solar panel systems are durable and can operate for 25 to 35 years, although some may operate longer.

At the end of the Black Moshannon Solar’s lifetime, a comprehensive decommissioning plan is in place to allow the site to be responsibly restored. This plan outlines specific procedures for dismantling and removing all components of the solar facility, and restoring the land to its prior condition. As stated by the American Clean Power Association, the costs of decommissioning do not fall upon the community or landowners, rather they are the responsibility of the project owner.

Yes, Ampliform’s solar installations are designed with the end in mind – restoration of the land at the end of the solar project's life. The American Clean Power Association states that unlike some other forms of development, a decommissioned solar project site can be repurposed for other uses, such as agricultural production. Decommissioning plans, defined in lease agreements, and required by government agencies, are focused on bringing the land back to its previous uses after removal of energy generation equipment and infrastructure.