Framingham-based energy infrastructure firm Ameresco has completed a 5.74-megawatt solar array at a capped landfill in Coventry, Rhode Island, a project expected to generate enough power for about 1,100 homes.
The solar array is expected to generate about 7.7 million kilowatt hours annually, eliminating about 3,760 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, according to a Monday press release from Ameresco. Luminace, a New York-based company which helps organizations reach their sustainability goals through offering clean energy solutions, worked with Ameresco on the project and will act as owner of the solar array.
The new array is expected to provide $4.4 million in economic benefits to the Town of Coventry during the initial lease period, allowing an otherwise undevelopable parcel to produce economic value.
“Our growing relationship and associated portfolio with the Ameresco team enables residents and businesses access to clean, renewable solar energy, while also increasing our solar asset operating base in the New England market.” Robert Rabe, chief development officer of Luminace, said in the press release. “We have been active in New England for nearly 20 years. This market has been core to our initial growth and remains an important part of our future growth trajectory.”
Opened in the 1930s, the landfill shut down in 1975 and was later capped in a process beginning in 2014, according to the Providence Journal.
Involved in energy-related projects across the country, Ameresco is in the midst of exploring the use of nuclear micro reactors at commercial and government properties. The company announced a $240-million Alaska hydroelectric facility in July and purchased an Ohio-based smart building firm in March.
Eric Casey is the managing editor at Worcester Business Journal, who primarily covers the real estate and banking & finance industries.
