Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Energy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Chester board approves free engineering studies to explore solar arrays and parking-canopy arrays on town property
Summary
The board authorized Municipal Solar Projects to perform no‑cost engineering site visits and feasibility studies for solar arrays and parking‑canopy installations on town buildings and lots; members emphasized due diligence, decommissioning plans and roof condition reviews before moving to procurement.
The Town of Chester voted Dec. 10 to accept a proposal from Municipal Solar Projects (MSP) to conduct engineering studies, at no upfront cost, to evaluate municipal roofs and parking lots for potential solar arrays and canopy installations.
The board listed candidate sites including the town hall, highway department building, police department and senior center parking lot. Supporters said canopy arrays over large parking areas could provide shade and energy savings while making efficient use of impervious surfaces. Several members urged thorough due diligence on building roofs, decommissioning terms and procurement details before any installation contract is executed.
Supervisor Holdridge and members of the Conservation Advisory Council said the studies are an exploratory step: MSP will scout sites and produce engineering assessments that the town can use to solicit proposals or prepare RFPs. Board members noted the highway department is already coordinating a roof replacement at a candidate site, which could dovetail with solar planning.
The resolution passed with board approval; staff were directed to coordinate site visits with MSP, highway, water and legal staff and to ensure any future contracts include decommissioning and procurement safeguards.
