Solar plant would be largest in New England
PITTSFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS - Plans are being put forward for a solar plant in Massachusetts that is expected to be the largest in New England.
The Western Massachusetts Electric Co. has acquired an eight-acre parcel in Pittsfield to develop the plant, according to a report in the Berkshire Eagle.
The 1.8MW plant will be located on Silver Lake Boulevard on land that is jointly owned by WMECO and the Pittsfield Economic Development Authority.
The company is at present seeking local planning permission for the plant and construction is expected to begin by the spring, according to WMECO.
The work is expected to cost between $10 million and $12 million.
This is the first of several large-scale solar power facilities that WMECO intends to build.
According to WMECO, the solar facility is expected to contribute more than $200,000 in annual property tax revenue to the City of Pittsfield. The site will have the capacity to provide enough energy to heat a maximum of 1,800 homes, WMECO spokeswoman Sandra Ahearn, told the Berkshire Eagle.
Related News
Manitoba Hydro hikes face opposition as hearings begin
WINNIPEG - Hearings began Monday into Manitoba Hydro’s request for consecutive annual rate hikes of 7.9 per cent. The crown corporation is asking for the steep hikes to commence April 1, 2018.
The increases would continue through 2023/2024, before dropping to what Hydro calls “sustainable” levels.
Patti Ramage, legal counsel for Hydro, said while she understands no one welcomes the “exceptional” rate increases, the company is dealing with exceptional circumstances.
It’s the largest rate increase Hydro has ever asked for, saying rising debt and declining credit ratings are affecting its financial stability.
President and CEO Kelvin Shepherd said Hydro is borrowing money to fund…