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Windham LEC explores landfill solar, will track state energy bills and consider efficiency recommendations
Summary
Committee members discussed a 2.2 MW landfill-mounted solar project as a model, assigned follow-up outreach to developers and other municipalities, and agreed to monitor New Hampshire energy legislation while preparing possible energy-efficiency recommendations for the Select Board and Planning Board.
At its May 19 meeting the Windham Local Energy Committee discussed pursuing large-scale solar and the possibility of recommending energy-efficiency requirements for new housing.
Pat Manzo flagged a 2.2-megawatt solar installation on Derry's closed Kendal Pond landfill developed by Encore Renewable Energy as a local example the committee could study. Mike Caulley, a newly appointed LEC member and electrical engineer, agreed to contact Encore to learn what steps Windham would need to pursue a similar landfill-mounted project. Kyle Gschwend agreed to contact other large-scale facilities in northern New Hampshire to provide comparative information.
Committee members also agreed to watch state legislative activity affecting energy policy. John Gage said bills of interest are published early in the session but public hearing notices often give about a week's notice, which can limit the LEC's ability to obtain Select Board approval to testify; Gage volunteered to monitor legislation and alert the committee.
Swapnil Saket asked whether the LEC could require energy-efficiency standards for new housing. DJ Withee reminded members the LEC's charter is advisory and the committee lacks authority to impose requirements; Heath Partington, the Select Board liaison, encouraged drafting recommendations to present to the Select Board and Planning Board. Swapnil said he will develop potential recommendations for the committee to consider later this year.
The LEC voted to adjourn at 7:06 p.m.
