A new solar project is coming according to state and local leaders making the announcvement for a solar project on former surface mine land in Southwest Virginia.The project is one of the first-utility scale projects in the country. The Highlands Solar Project will repurpose around 1,200 acres of the former Red Onion Surface Mine in Wise and Dickenson Counties.The project is expected to generate enough energy to power more than 12,500 homes. The company plans to begin construction as early as 20-24.