Carbondale will be leading the way in renewable energy production in Southern Illinois.

Brightfields Development will develop a solar array at the former Koppers Wood Treatment Plant location on North Marion St.

The company is engaging in what they call the “PILOT” program, Pilot, an acronym for Payment in Lieu of Tax.

The company will pay the city an estimated $500,000 per year, and will be used for an environmentally-friendly purpose.

Brightfields would be given three years to begin construction after receiving clearance to build by the EPA.