Cumberland County officials are moving forward with plans to install a solar array on the roof of the new Northport building, aiming to harness renewable energy without incurring costs to taxpayers. During the December 9 Commissioner Meeting, the board discussed negotiating exclusively with Maine Solar Solutions to develop a feasible solar project, with a budget of up to $114,000. This funding will be supplemented by a 30% federal rebate, making the initiative financially viable.

The proposal is designed to enhance energy efficiency and reduce electricity costs for the county. While specific savings estimates were not available during the meeting, officials expressed optimism about the long-term benefits of solar energy. The engineering team has conducted drone flyovers to assess potential shading issues and is expected to provide further insights into the project's financial returns once a plan is finalized.

Commissioners raised questions about the potential for excess energy production and whether it could be allocated to other county facilities. However, it was clarified that the solar array is expected to meet the building's energy needs without generating surplus energy for other locations.

The discussion also touched on the possibility of expanding the solar installation beyond the initial budget if it proves feasible. This would require further consultation with engineering experts to ensure the building's roof can support a larger array without delaying the move-in date.

As Cumberland County continues to explore sustainable energy solutions, this solar project represents a significant step towards reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and promoting environmental responsibility within the community. The next steps will involve finalizing negotiations and determining the best approach to maximize the benefits of the solar array for county operations.