How Solar Can Revitalize America's Rural Heartland

Smithville, Texas, a town known for its giant gingerbread man and Hollywood cameos, is making headlines for something even bigger—its solar future. With a 1.4MW solar power plant now generating clean energy for over 100 homes, this small town is proving that the energy transition isn’t just for big cities. In this episode, we go behind the scenes of Smithville’s solar transformation, from the unique financing mechanism that made it possible to the community benefits already taking shape. Hear from the local government and developers as they share the challenges, solutions, and surprising impacts of bringing solar to rural America.  🔹 The financing strategy that covered 50% of the project cost 🔹 How a 25-year power purchase agreement is saving the city $40K per year 🔹 The unexpected way Smithville is maintaining the land (hint: 🐑) 🔹 Why this project could be a model for small towns across the U.S. Join us for a look at how America’s small towns can take big steps toward a clean energy future. If you want to connect with today's guest, you’ll find links to his contact info in the show notes on the blog at https://mysuncast.com/suncast-episodes/. Our Platinum Presenting Sponsor for SunCast is CPS America! SunCast is proudly supported by Trina Solar. You can learn more about all the sponsors who help make this show free for you at www.mysuncast.com/sponsors. Remember, you can always find resources, learn more about today’s guest and explore recommendations, book links, and more than 730 other founder stories and startup advice at www.mysuncast.com. Subscribe to Valence, our weekly LinkedIn Newsletter, and learn the elements of compelling storytelling: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/valence-content-that-connects-7145928995363049472/ You can connect with me, Nico Johnson, on: Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/nicomeo LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickalus