Tolland schools explore solar power agreements for energy savings

The Tolland Board of Education is moving forward with a significant solar energy initiative that promises to deliver substantial savings for the district over the next two decades. During a recent meeting on March 19, 2025, the board discussed a series of proposed solar projects under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) framework, which would allow the district to buy energy at a fixed rate while the developer manages the solar installations.

The plan includes solar installations at three schools: Birch Grove, the Intermediate School, and the Middle School. Birch Grove is particularly advantageous due to its modern infrastructure, which is well-suited for solar energy. The projected savings for Birch Grove are estimated at around $20,000 annually, totaling over $600,000 over the 20-year agreement. The Middle School is also expected to yield significant savings, although it faces challenges due to older electrical systems that require upgrades.

In contrast, the high school will utilize a different approach with a parking canopy solar system. This system will not be connected to the school’s energy consumption but will instead sell power back to Eversource, leveraging an existing virtual net metering agreement that already benefits the school financially.

The board emphasized the importance of a mixed approach to solar energy, combining both on-site generation and grid-connected systems. This strategy not only maximizes savings but also provides a hedge against fluctuating energy prices. Overall, the combined savings from all four projects are projected to exceed $120,000 annually.

The discussions highlighted the board's commitment to sustainable energy solutions that not only reduce costs but also align with broader environmental goals. As the district moves forward with these initiatives, stakeholders can anticipate a more sustainable and economically viable energy future for Tolland schools.