Boston, MA – The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has approved National Grid’s plans to construct and deploy approximately 5 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic power at five company‑owned sites, marking the department’s second approval of utility company ownership and operation of solar energy installations under the Green Communities Act of 2008.
National Grid’s solar projects are planned for locations in Dorchester, Everett, Haverhill, Revere, and on the Sutton/Northbridge border.
“Governor Patrick’s goal to increase installation of solar power in Massachusetts to 250 megawatts by 2017 is ambitious, but achievable. Already, the Commonwealth is on pace for at least 40 megawatts by the end of 2010 – up from less than 4 MW when the Governor took office,” DPU Chairman Paul Hibbard said. “The approved National Grid plan moves us closer to that goal, while protecting ratepayers.”
Designed to promote the development of renewable energy and stimulate the Commonwealth’s clean energy economy, the Green Communities Act gave utility companies the ability to own and operate solar electric installations up to 50 MW. Just as utilities bill customers for the cost of fossil-fuel generated electricity, the cost of utility-owned solar power will be recouped through ratepayer revenues.
Once fully operational by the end of 2010, National Grid’s solar projects will contribute to the local supply of renewable power, helping the Commonwealth meet its Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requirements. Established as part of the utility restructuring act in 1997, the RPS is designed to diversify the state’s electricity supply portfolio and create market demand to spur the development of renewable power
Second Solar Power Plan Approved
The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has approved National Grid’s plans to construct and deploy approximately 5 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic power at five company‑owned sites, marking the department’s second approval of utility company ownership and operation of solar energy installations under the Green Communities Act of 2008.
