Business Details
22 Years
experience
Utility-Scale Solar Projects in the Southeast US
Carolina Solar Energy has been pioneering utility-scale solar projects in the Southeastern United States since 2004. Founded by Richard Harkrader, our team brings together landowners, municipalities, and communities to develop sustainable solar energy solutions. With over 950MWdc of operating or under-construction projects across North Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky, and Louisiana, we specialize in site selection, project development, and policy advocacy. Our family-owned business combines 15+ years of industry expertise with a commitment to reducing energy costs and promoting renewable energy adoption.We prioritize community engagement, economic development in underserved areas, and environmental stewardship through partnerships with organizations like TROSA. Led by CEO Carson Harkrader, a recognized leader in clean energy, we continue to expand into new markets while maintaining our core values of innovation and collaboration.
Services
Utility-Scale Solar Projects
Land Qualification
Project Development
Policy Advocacy
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- Family-owned business with 15+ years of solar industry experience
- Developed over 950MWdc of solar projects across 4 states
- Specialized expertise in Southeastern US land qualification
- Active policy advocacy shaping renewable energy legislation
- Community-focused approach with local economic development partnerships
What people say
Successful project
Professionalism
Economic development benefits
Community-focused approach
Renewable energy expertise
Services
Utility-Scale Solar Projects
We develop large-scale photovoltaic solar energy projects across the Southeastern United States. Our expertise spans site selection, permitting, and construction management for projects ranging from 5MW to 91MW capacity. We specialize in creating long-term renewable energy solutions that benefit both landowners and local communities through sustainable power generation and economic development opportunities.
Land Qualification
Our comprehensive land evaluation process combines GIS mapping, environmental surveys, and geotechnical analysis to identify optimal solar project locations. We assess topography, soil composition, transmission line access, and environmental constraints to determine land suitability while maintaining focus on minimizing ecological impact and maximizing energy production potential.
Policy Advocacy
We actively shape renewable energy legislation through local, state, and national policy engagement. Our advocacy efforts include testifying before regulatory commissions, participating in industry associations, and collaborating with legislators to promote solar-friendly policies. This work has directly contributed to North Carolina becoming a regional leader in solar energy adoption through initiatives like the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard.
Community Development
We create mutually beneficial partnerships with municipalities and landowners to develop solar projects that align with community goals. Our approach includes early outreach programs, economic development initiatives, and workforce partnerships with local organizations. These efforts ensure projects deliver both clean energy and tangible community benefits through job creation and sustainable development practices.
Project Management
Our end-to-end project management covers all phases from initial concept to construction completion. Services include interconnection applications, state permitting, environmental compliance, and construction oversight. We coordinate with all stakeholders to ensure timely project delivery while maintaining strict quality standards and adherence to regulatory requirements throughout the development process.
People
Carson Harkrader
CEO
Leads business strategy and market expansion with 15+ years of solar industry experience. Holds MBA from NYU and serves as Vice Chair of Carolinas Clean Energy Business Association. Recognized as top CEO in Energy by Business North Carolina.
Richard Harkrader
Founder
Established Carolina Solar Energy in 2004 and built the Southeast's first utility-scale solar project. Served as NC Sustainable Energy Association Chair and helped create the Carolinas Clean Energy Business Association. Known as 'grandfather of solar energy in NC.'
Tyler Caron
Solar Developer
Manages site selection and project development with environmental technology expertise. Joined team in 2018 after completing internship with Strata Solar. Holds BS in Environmental Technology and Management from NC State University.
Vann Joines
Business Development Director
Handles landowner outreach and Gulf South market expansion. Brings commercial real estate development experience and sustainable real estate masters degree from Tulane University. Manages due diligence operations across multiple states.
Benjamin Finch
Outreach Director
Coordinates early landowner engagement and community relations with 14 years of solar project experience. Former economic development professional in North Carolina. Manages event planning and local stakeholder communications.
Questions
What types of solar projects do you develop?
We specialize in utility-scale photovoltaic solar projects ranging from 5MW to 91MW capacity across the Southeastern United States.
How do you determine if land is suitable for solar development?
We evaluate land using GIS mapping, environmental surveys, geotechnical analysis, and transmission line access assessments to identify optimal solar sites.
Which states do you operate in?
We currently develop projects in North Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky, and Louisiana with Gulf South region expertise.
How do you engage with local communities?
We implement early outreach programs, partner with local organizations like TROSA, and focus on economic development benefits for host communities.
What policy advocacy work do you do?
We actively shape renewable energy legislation through regulatory testimony, industry association leadership, and legislative collaboration at local, state, and national levels.
How can landowners work with you?
Contact us directly with parcel details or complete our online land qualification form to begin the site evaluation process.
