A major solar project is now powering up in East Bernard. The Bernard Creek Solar Farm spans 1,620 acres and features nearly 570,000 panels generating 230 megawatts of energy. County leaders, local fire departments, and Houston-based owner ENGIE celebrated the launch. ENGIE donated $15,000 to the Hungerford and East Bernard fire departments, which fought brush fires there in March. The project is expected to bring $50 million in local economic benefits over 35 years, boosting Wharton County’s economy and clean energy future.