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Essex Committee advances RFQ work for potential solar project on conserved Unsworth parcel
Summary
The committee reviewed a draft request for qualifications to attract a solar developer for the conserved Unsworth parcel, discussed conservation constraints and revenue-use conditions, and agreed to consult Renewable Energy Vermont to confirm policy and procurement feasibility.
The Essex Energy Committee discussed a possible solar facility on the conserved Unsworth parcel and advanced work on a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to attract and evaluate developers.
Committee members said the parcel could host a sizable array given nearby distribution lines, but conservation restrictions limit allowable uses. Will Dodge said town negotiators discussed pairing a solar proposal with recreational improvements (trails or amenities) and restricting project revenue to town recreation funds as a way to secure landowner consent.
Members reviewed an example Request for Qualifications for comprehensive energy services and noted a prior draft RFQ appears to have circulated in 2025. The committee asked to consult Renewable Energy Vermont for feasibility questions related to net-metering changes and alternative procurement approaches (power-purchase agreement, developer ownership with storage), and to identify evaluation criteria so the town can judge returned proposals.
Action items: committee will invite Renewable Energy Vermont representative Jonathan Dows (Dows) for an initial conversation; members will review the existing RFQ draft and determine whether to issue a new procurement.
