Cobb EMC and Gas South Break Ground on SolarShare Community Solar Project in Cherokee County

(Marietta, GA – June 2, 2026) — Cobb EMC and Gas South announced today they have broken ground on a new community solar project, right off of I‑75 in Cherokee County, expanding access to locally generated clean energy for Cobb EMC members. Gas South is partnering with Cobb EMC to support the project as part of a shared commitment to delivering practical, community-focused energy solutions. Developed in coordination with the Georgia Department of Transportation, the project reflects strong cross‑agency collaboration to bring this site online. This unique project is one of only a few interstate solar projects in the U.S., and just the second in Georgia. The new solar installation will support SolarShare, Cobb EMC’s new community solar program. 

SolarShare is designed to make solar power more accessible and affordable for eligible members who may not be able to install rooftop panels at their home or business. Through the program, members can subscribe to blocks of energy from the shared solar facility and receive monthly bill credits for the energy produced, without upfront costs or ongoing maintenance. 

Now open for pre‑enrollment, SolarShare provides a flexible alternative to rooftop solar, making it ideal for renters, members with strict homeowner’s association restrictions, or those who prefer a simpler way to support clean energy. Participation in the program can also transfer if a member moves within Cobb EMC’s service area. 

“This project reflects our commitment to offering practical, member‑focused energy solutions,” said Tim Jarrell, Executive Vice President of Power Supply and Emerging Technologies at Cobb EMC. “SolarShare provides an affordable way for our members to participate in local solar generation without the cost and complexity of rooftop systems, while supporting cleaner energy close to home.” 

“At Gas South, we’re proud to partner with Cobb EMC in efforts that expand access to practical, reliable energy solutions for the communities we serve,” said Jamie Tiernan, Chief Financial Officer at Gas South. “SolarShare highlights how forward-thinking collaboration can drive meaningful, long-term benefits for our customers.” 

The community solar project, with a planned capacity of 1 MW, will generate electricity locally in Cherokee County and feed it directly into Cobb EMC’s system. By enabling more members to participate in solar generation, the project helps reduce the overall carbon footprint while keeping energy benefits within the community. 

Colite Technologies is the installation partner for the project and is helping bring the solar project online efficiently and safely. “We are extremely excited to be working with Cobb EMC to support the provision of clean renewable energy to their member base. Cobb EMC is truly a forward-thinking utility creatively addressing the ongoing challenges in the electric energy market,” added Kevin O’Hara, president and CEO of Colite Technologies.  

Cobb EMC members who enroll in SolarShare can purchase blocks of solar power on a monthly basis and receive a corresponding bill credit for the energy produced. Members may purchase up to five blocks, allowing flexibility to match individual energy needs and budgets. Each block is comprised of 3 solar panels. 

Space is limited, so members interested in participating are encouraged to pre‑enroll now by visiting www.cobbemc.com/solarshare.