Things just got a lot brighter in New Haven, where a massive solar energy project was completed in partnership with Greenskies Clean Focus. The new 2.32 megawatt network is going to power two Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) campuses with low-cost, sustainable solar energy, the Hartford Courant reported.
The project is technically a distributed energy resource (DER) solar facility, which means it comprises a series of decentralized, grid-connected solar panel systems — totaling 4,290 panels — that will generate and store power near the two campuses.
Officials estimate that the system will help CSCU reap approximately $6 million in energy savings over a 20-year span. Through generating over 3 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy each year, the Courant explained, this will allow the CSCU system to offset more than 1,500 tons of atmospheric-polluting toxic gases. That's the equivalent of not burning over 156,000 gallons of gasoline each year.
Additional energy savings will come from Connecticut's virtual net metering program, which allows the owner of a renewable energy system to receive credits for any extra power they generate, including energy produced at a remote site.
"This project represents another step forward in Connecticut's transition to a clean energy future," Ryan Linares, of Greenskies Clean Focus, said. "We are helping institutions like CSCU reduce energy costs and carbon emissions while supporting the state's renewable energy objectives. We deeply appreciate CSCU's continued partnership, which has now resulted in over 14.5 MW successful distributed solar projects that demonstrate the power of collaboration in advancing sustainable energy solutions."
The state has also launched solar projects across other agencies. One solar initiative in Connecticut's prisons is projected to save the Department of Corrections $11 million in energy costs over 25 years, the Courant reported.
Save big on holiday spirit with 25% off lighting — this week only CVS has you covered this holiday season, with thousands of gifts, perfect stocking stuffers, joyful holiday decor, and more. You’ll find exciting advent calendars, personalized holiday photos, tasty treats like Ghirardelli peppermint bark, and even gift card go-tos. Plus, brighten up any room (or roof) with a curated assortment of holiday lights — all 25% off for a limited time only. Learn more → |
Solar projects continue to expand nationwide, with public and private initiatives in all 50 states. Overall, the clean energy sector experienced job growth rates that were more than twice those of the general employment market in 2023, according to the Department of Energy. By migrating away from polluting fossil fuels, solar projects like this one help reduce air pollution and planet-warming emissions, thereby securing a more stable and resilient future for all.
|
Would you want EV-charging roads installed in your town? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Sign me up 👍 
Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Cool Picks
