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08/01/2017 04:30 PMThe Clinton Energy Commission recently completed its goal of installing a solar energy system atop the Public Works building at no cost to the town.
Paul Gebauer, a member of the Energy Committee, compared the system to one that would be capable of powering a large home. The system consists of 33 solar panels and is more than nine kilowatts. Gebauer called the system “pretty cool.”
The system cost $22,500, but was paid for in grants at no cost to the town.
“We combined a few different grants,” said Gebauer of grants given out by the Connecticut Green Bank.
Gebauer explained that the Green Bank has a system that awards points to communities that take steps to become more sustainable. Each point is worth a certain dollar amount and can be cashed in and used for projects such as this one. Gebauer said the program tries to “incentivize good behavior.”
The system was installed by Chris Lenda of Aegis Solar Energy. While Lenda said the system produces only “a fraction of the power” needed to power the entire Public Works building, the savings will still be substantial.
“Certainly, over the lifespan of 30 years, it will significantly reduce the cost,” said Lenda.
Lenda said the system will generate 12,000 kilowatt-hours per year. Once the system is operational, data on its performance and production can be tracked online at www.monitoringpublic.solaredge.com.
While the panels have been installed and have been turned on for testing purposes, Lenda said the building won’t become fully operational until after a final inspection by the utility company.
The Clinton Energy Committee was formed in 2013 and, according to Gebauer, has a mission of “helping the town, businesses, and residents to be more efficient with their energy.” The committee currently consists of four members, and has been behind several initiatives in recent years to help the town go green. As examples of other tasks done by the committee, Gebauer pointed to solar arrays installed on Joel School and Eliot School, the installation of an electric vehicle charging station behind Town Hall, and a light bulb swap that drew close to 500 people.