Viola Solar dedicated in May 2026, first utility-scale solar in Burnett County

Viola Solar generates local power to benefit co-op members.

The array relieves high summer demand at Hertel substation and offsets power market costs.

Viola Solar, the first utility-scale solar in Burnett County, was dedicated with a ribbon cutting celebration May 28, 2026.

“We’re excited to celebrate the opening of Viola Solar because it helps us become less reliant on energy markets and strengthens grid reliability for our members,” said Polk-Burnett General Manager Steve Stroshane.

The 2.5 MW array, located on Hwy. 70 between Siren and Hertel, was officially energized in December 2025. It generates about 5 million kWh of electricity annually, enough to power about 600 homes.

The 13-acre site was selected to help meet high summer demand at the Hertel Substation. It has 5,200 panels that operate on a tracking system to follow the path of the sun.

Solar energy feeds into the electric distribution system at nearby Hertel Substation to benefit members of Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative.

“The project provides both operational and financial benefits by generating power locally,” said Stroshane. “Viola Solar relieves high demand at the substation and helps offset power market costs.”

Viola Solar was developed in partnership with Madison-based OneEnergy Renewables.

The timing of Viola Solar construction was coordinated with other co-op solar projects across Wisconsin to get a better price and return on investment for members.

Polk-Burnett will purchase solar energy output from the array at a fixed rate for 30 years.

“Co-op solar arrays are dual-purpose spaces that provide energy for members, as well as acres of restored pasture and prairie ecosystems,” said Stroshane.

Viola Solar is the fourth utility-scale solar array in Polk-Burnett’s service territory and the first in Burnett County. 

Learn more about co-op solar and see energy production