Jackson Bertram proposes solar installation on storage facility in Rhode Island

The Lincoln Zoning meeting on March 4, 2025, focused on a proposal for solar energy installation at a self-storage facility operated by Mr. Yenigan. The meeting featured testimony from Jackson Bertram, a representative from a solar company, who outlined the plan to install solar panels on three of the five rows of storage units.

Bertram explained that the decision to limit the installation to three rows was based on the optimal size of the solar system approved by Rhode Island Energy. He noted that the main structure of the facility already had a solar system installed in 2020, leaving no additional rooftop space available for further solar panels. The property is primarily concrete, which restricts the possibility of ground-mounted solar arrays due to existing land use restrictions related to past environmental concerns.

The proposed solar system will generate approximately 249.21 kilowatts of direct current (DC) electricity, which will be sent directly to Rhode Island Energy rather than being used on-site. Bertram highlighted the financial incentives available through Rhode Island's regrowth program, which offers compensation for each kilowatt-hour of electricity sent to the grid.

Concerns regarding the visibility of the solar panels were addressed, with Bertram assuring that the flush-mounted panels would be low-profile and minimally visible from the street. The existing solar installation on the main building is at a higher elevation, making it less noticeable compared to the proposed installation on the storage units.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the benefits of solar energy for the facility and the community, emphasizing the importance of renewable energy sources in local development. The next steps will involve further review and potential approval of the solar installation plan.