Solar 101: How It Works and Why It’s Worth It

Jonathan Cox • June 25, 2025

The Future Is Built on Sustainable Design 

The construction industry is undergoing a transformation. As the global demand for renewable energy grows and infrastructure becomes more environmentally accountable, solar farms and sustainable construction are taking center stage. At Keeley, we’re not just keeping pace with the future—we’re helping build it.


Solar 101: How It Works on a Larger Scale 

Solar farms, also known as photovoltaic (PV) power stations, use large-scale arrays of solar panels to generate electricity. Unlike rooftop systems, solar farms are designed for grid-level energy production, often covering acres of land with thousands of interconnected panels. 

Here’s how it works: 

  • Solar Panels: Mounted on ground-fixed or tracking systems, these capture solar energy efficiently across large areas. 
  • Inverters and Transformers: These convert the DC output from the panels into AC power suitable for grid transmission. 
  • Grid Integration: Power from solar farms is fed into utility grids or microgrids, providing energy to thousands of homes, industries, and facilities. 
  • Energy Storage Systems (ESS): Battery solutions allow excess energy to be stored and released when demand peaks or sunlight is low. 


Why It’s Worth the Investment 

  1. Scalable Power Production: Solar farms can generate anywhere from a few megawatts to hundreds, supplying clean energy on a massive scale. 
  2. Long-Term ROI: Though upfront costs can be high, operational expenses are minimal, with low maintenance and zero fuel costs. 
  3. Regulatory and Tax Incentives: Governments continue to back utility-scale renewables with grants, incentives, and favorable zoning policies. 
  4. Land Optimization: Underutilized or non-arable land can be repurposed for solar farms, creating economic value while preserving agricultural zones. 
  5. Carbon Offset Benefits: Solar farms dramatically reduce emissions compared to traditional energy sources, aligning projects with ESG goals and climate commitments. 


The Future Is Built on Sustainable Civil Design 

Sustainable design isn’t limited to buildings—it’s revolutionizing civil construction, too. Whether it’s roads, bridges, or public infrastructure, sustainable practices are reshaping how we approach large-scale projects: 

  • Low-Carbon Materials: Incorporating recycled aggregates, low-emission concrete, and eco-asphalt into construction workflows. 
  • Stormwater Management: Designing with permeable pavements and green drainage systems to control runoff and improve water quality. 
  • Site Optimization: Minimizing land disruption and integrating renewable installations like solar or wind within transportation and industrial corridors. 
  • Energy Infrastructure Integration: Combining civil works with utility-scale solar installations to power public infrastructure directly from renewable sources. 


By embedding sustainability into every stage of the civil construction process, we not only meet evolving regulatory demands—we also help future-proof infrastructure for the next generation. 

The future of construction lies at the intersection of energy, infrastructure, and environmental responsibility


Check out Keeley’s Solar projects here: 

https://www.keeleyconstruction.com/projects/engie-solar-panel-farm 

https://www.keeleyconstruction.com/projects/7v-solar-ranch 

https://www.keeleyconstruction.com/projects/cofeen-solar-farm 

https://www.keeleyconstruction.com/projects/baldwin-solar-farm 


January 27, 2026
1.0 – Definition 2.0 – Policy 2.1 – Time & Material Projects 2.2 – Lump Sum Projects 3.0 – Mailing Instructions and Address Information 1.0 – Definitions Any surplus construction materials or structural components that are deemed to be scrap, that can be collected and taken to a recycling facility for compensation. Any used and or removed construction materials or structural components that are taken out during demolition that can be collected and taken to a recycling facility for compensation. 2.0 – Policy It is the general policy of Keeley to act with honesty and integrity when accounting for surplus and scrap materials. At no time shall materials be willfully and purposely recycled. Scrap materials are the property of the client or the company and should be treated as such. 2.1 – Time & Material Projects On a Time & Material (T&M) project the client owns all scrap materials when the materials have been originally purchased by them. In this case it is the client’s sole responsibility to collect (or provide a collection receptacle), transport, and collect any applicable compensation. Should the Client turn the scrap materials over to Keeley a written notice of this action is required before taking ownership of the materials. In this case, please refer to section 2.2. 2.2 – Lump Sum Projects On a lump sum project where the original construction materials are purchased by the company, Keeley owns all of the scrap materials that may arise. In this case care shall be taken to collect all scrap materials throughout the construction process. The items shall then be transported to a recycling facility that will pay out the compensation in form of a check. This check shall be made payable to Keeley Construction. This check shall then be promptly mailed to the Ewing Keeley office. 3.0 – Mailing Instructions Please send the scrap compensation checks in the US Mail or via UPS to the following address. After mailing the check please follow up with an email to jridler@keeleyconstruction.com with any tracking information and to let him know to be on the lookout. Keeley Construction Attn: Josh Ridler 500 S Ewing Ave Unit G St. Louis, MO 63103
January 27, 2026
Let’s be honest, going “fully green” overnight isn’t realistic for most of us. That’s okay. Sustainability isn’t about perfection. Small, consistent changes can make a real impact, especially when they are habits you’ll stick with. Here are a few simple ways to be more eco-friendly without overhauling your life. 1. Cut back on single use items This one is low effort, but high impact. Keep reusable water bottles, coffee mug, or a set of utensils on hand. Fewer disposables equal less waste in landfills. 2. Be intentional with energy use Turning off the lights when you leave a room, or unplugging chargers when your not using them seems like minor usage, but these add up. Open the blinds instead of flipping the switch, your plants will thank you. 3. Choose digital when you can Opt for digital documents, invoices, and notes instead of printed ones. When printing is necessary, use double-sided printing. It’s a simple way to reduce paper waste, especially in an office environment. 4. Support sustainable choices (when possible) You don’t have to buy all “green” everything. Just be more mindful. Choose durable products over disposable ones, and support companies that prioritize sustainability when it makes sense for you. 5. Talk about it One of the most overlooked green habits is conversation. Sharing tips, tricks, and wins with others helps normalize eco-conscious choices and encourages others to try them. Sustainability is about progress, not perfection. Start with one or two habits that feel manageable and build from there. Remember, real change takes time.
September 24, 2025
For those of you who haven’t heard yet, we are rolling out a new platform, GCPay, to help us manage lien waivers and subcontractor pay applications. GCPay will integrate seamlessly with CMiC to streamline workflows for our Finance & Accounting team, as well as improve processes for project teams as it relates to subcontractor bills & communication. Take a look at the information below so you are fully informed about how the GCPay rollout will impact you!