434-kW Ground-Mount to be Installed on Massachusetts Capped Landfill

Washington Gas Energy Systems Inc. today announced it has signed a 20-year contract with the town of Brookfield, Mass., to finance, own and operate a 434-kW ground-mounted solar array. It will be located on a capped landfill behind the town transfer station at 15 Quaboag Street.

stock - wideshot“Small towns like ours were hit hard by the economic downturn, and anytime we can find a way to generate revenue for the town, it’s a plus,” said Brookfield Selectman Rudy Heller, who has worked on this project with a committee of volunteers since its inception. “If at the same time we reduce our carbon footprint, everybody wins. We are very pleased that this project is coming to fruition.”

The solar photovoltaic system is expected to produce more than 500,000 kilowatt hours of clean energy in the first year, which is equivalent to the total annual electrical usage of almost 100 average single-family homes. The 1,846 solar panels will cover approximately three acres of land.

“The town of Brookfield has embraced an innovative way to make use of its capped landfill by installing renewable energy resources, and should serve as a model for other towns and neighborhoods,” said Sanjiv Mahan, vice president of business development for Washington Gas Energy Systems. “We are committed to bringing clean energy solutions to communities throughout Massachusetts and across the country, and will continue to invest in renewable energy assets.”

Construction on the solar array should be completed in June 2013, and is anticipated to result in substantial savings in the town’s utility costs. The array will help power virtually all Brookfield government functions including schools, emergency response, street lighting and the Town Hall.

— Solar Builder magazine

[source: http://www.solarbuildermag.com/news/434-kw-ground-mount-to-be-installed-on-massachusetts-capped-landfill/]


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