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Presenters outline proposed solar array at lagoons, say array would offset most site energy use
Summary
Presenters Ben Southworth and Melissa Elander told the Select Board a proposed solar array at the town lagoons has funding in place and would significantly reduce the town’s energy costs; the board discussed warranties, maintenance, and a plan to put the project out to bid if approved.
Ben Southworth and Melissa Elander presented a proposed solar array to the Lancaster Select Board on Jan. 21, saying funds have already been secured and the project could deliver meaningful energy savings for town facilities.
In an overview, Southworth described project history and cost-savings projections. He and Elander discussed technical details the board requested: panel lifespan, warranty terms, the number of inverters required and who would perform ongoing maintenance. "The array will offset 68% of cost of the air rater use, so there will be no overage," Melissa Elander said when asked whether surplus energy could be credited to other town buildings.
Board members questioned operational details and procurement. Alan Savage asked whether the town could seek an agreement with Eversource to transfer any overage to other town buildings; presenters described system sizing and financial modeling that, they said, would limit overproduction. Select Board members were told that if the board approves the project it would be put out to competitive bid.
The presentation did not produce a formal vote; presenters said they would return with contract documents. The board did not set a timeline for final approval at the Jan. 21 meeting.
