Reading solar array posts mixed July output; board says system will save money though not cover all new demand

The Reading Energy Board reviewed mid-July production from the town-owned solar array at its July 15 meeting, reporting 2.92 megawatt-hours produced as of July 15 this year and 5.45 megawatt-hours in July last year. Board members said the array has produced 91 megawatt-hours since it came online in August 2024.

Board member Brian Cali told colleagues that production in May and June this year exceeded the same months in 2025 and that he will inspect each building’s electric bill to decide whether any reallocation of credited production is needed. Bill Neukomm asked whether the array is supplying enough power now that several heat pumps were installed under the MERP grant.

Members noted the array was designed to meet electrical needs based on 2021–23 usage and said it will not generate enough power to cover the added load from recently installed heat pumps, but that the town should nonetheless realize net savings. The board did not approve any change to sizing or add a new array; staff follow-up will include a review of building-level bills and any reallocation recommendations.