Solect Energy Awarded Competitive RFP Contract with the City of Medford for a Microgrid Energy Management System

Solar PV System, Energy Storage System and Generator will Provide Medford DPW  with Highly Efficient and Resilient Operations

 

Medford, MA – Solect Energy, the state’s leading commercial-scale developer and installer of solar energy systems, announced today that they have been awarded a competitive RFP contract to engineer, procure, install, and service a microgrid energy management system at the City’s Department of Public Works (DPW). The system includes a 235kW PV solar array which has already been installed by Solect through their partnership with PowerOptions, an 100kW/255kWh NEC Distributed Storage Solution (DSS) and an emergency generator.

The City of Medford applied for and was awarded a MA Department of Energy Resources (DOER) Community Clean Energy Resiliency Initiative Grant of $833,000. The grant funds the comprehensive microgrid and energy storage system demonstration project, and is one of several that the Commonwealth is supporting to prove the value of distributed renewable energy technologies for municipal preparedness in extreme conditions. The project will result in a resilient and highly efficient operations center to serve the City and its residents in any conditions, including loss of grid power.   

“Solect’s Microgrid RFP was strong and compelling, and they were extremely helpful with each step of the way from the proposal, installation of the PV system to the DOER grant extension,” said Mayor Stephanie M. Burke. “The microgrid system will enable us to make great strides in our goal of highly efficient, resilient buildings. We look forward to collaborating with Solect on this project and demonstrating to the Commonwealth and the citizens of the City of Medford, the value of distributed renewable energy systems.”

An added benefit of the microgrid’s solar + storage combination, is the ability to lower expensive demand charges.  Demand charges are based on a customer’s monthly peak load, and in many cases [in Massachusetts] can account for up to 70% of a commercial customer’s electricity bill. In addition, the City can take full advantage of the storage capacity to more effectively participate in a range of Demand Response programs to further reduce operating expenses.

“We salute Mayor Burke, Alicia Hunt and the City of Medford for the attention and emphasis they are placing on resiliency planning for their city buildings and harnessing solar plus storage to deliver high efficiency, energy stability and cost savings,” said Kenneth Driscoll, President and CEO at Solect Energy.  “We applaud their vision and have high expectations that the system will deliver on those goals, while also allowing the City to reduce their expenses over the next twenty years.”

 

About the City of Medford

Founded in 1630, Medford is the fourth oldest English settlement in America. Established as a City in 1892, Medford is one of the oldest settlements in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the US.

Medford was a leader in the Clipper Ship building industry and manufactured brick and tile. In addition, Medford was famous for its “Medford Rum” and “Medford Crackers.” Revolutionary war patriot Sarah Bradlee Fulton lived here. General George Washington visited here during the Revolutionary War, while Paul Revere came through on his famous ride, waking up Medford residents with “the British are coming!” Medford is also the home to abolitionists Prince Hall and Lydia Maria Child, cooking school founder Fannie Farmer, General Samuel Lawrence, who fought at the battle of Bull Run, and former Massachusetts Governor John Brooks. The Christmas Song “Jingle Bells” was written here by James Pierpont.

The name Medford is thought to have come from “the ford by the meadow” or “Medford” thus commemorating the importance of the fordable part of the Mystic River located just west of present-day Medford Square.

The original area of Medford was owned by Mathew Cradock, the first Governor of the Massachusetts colonies. Although Cradock never saw it, he employed men to develop his land into a plantation. After his death, the plantation passed to his heirs and then was sold en masse in 1652 to Edward Collins. The area was designated a “peculiar” which signified that it was private property and not a properly incorporated town. Collins began selling pieces of land to others after 1656. In 1684, Medford was granted the right to raise its own money by the General Court. For more information, visit www.medford-ma.gov or follow us on Twitter at @MedfordMass or @GoGreenMedford.

 

IMPACT Melanoma Honors Solect Energy’s Ken Driscoll

Impact Melanoma Honors
Driscoll Presented with Keeper of the Hope Award at 2018 Gala

November 19, 2018 – HOPKINTON, MA – Solect Energy, the leading commercial-scale developer and installer of solar energy systems in Massachusetts, announced today that its CEO, Ken Driscoll, has been honored by IMPACT Melanoma with its Keeper of the Hope Award. The award was presented at IMPACT Melanoma’s 2018 Shades of Hope Gala which took place on Friday, Nov. 16th at the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston. Driscoll was lauded for his many contributions to IMPACT Melanoma and for the leadership role Solect has taken in educating its workers and partners about respecting the power of the sun.

IMPACT Melanoma, a national non-profit aimed at reducing the incidence of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is committed to sun-safety. The Keeper of the Hope Award is presented to a member of its IMPACT community whose generosity, vision and commitment to the organization over time is unwavering. The award is given in honor of Suzanne Donahue, a young woman who lost her battle with melanoma at age 37.

“We are delighted to present Ken with the 2018 Keeper of the Hope Award,” said Deb Girard, Executive Director of IMPACT Melanoma. “Ken has been an outstanding corporate partner, hosting our Boston Marathon team at their Hopkinton offices on race day for the past 6 years, and volunteering on our golf tournament committee. What has really made Ken stand out is the leadership that he and his team at Solect have shown in not just evangelizing, but actively supporting skin safety for their outdoor workers and partners. Solect’s protocols for educating and protecting their team members from harmful UV rays, have become the model for our National Workers Initiative.”

Skin cancer rates are growing at epidemic numbers. Outdoor workers receive up to 8 times more UV radiation than indoor workers and have a 60% greater risk of developing skin cancer. This year over 3.5 million skin cancers will be diagnosed in the United States. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recognized that safe workplaces promote ways to protect workers’ skin from harmful UV radiation.

“Our business is about harnessing the power of the sun,” said Ken Driscoll. “With all the benefits that the sun provides us as a clean energy resource, we also have to respect its adverse effects. Our team members are on roofs installing or maintaining solar panels, and are exposed to the elements daily. Solect ensures the highest safety measures – providing safety guardrails and harnesses, certified safety protective equipment, and fall prevention safety trainings, and we believe that skin safety is also a part of that commitment, which is why we have taken proactive measures to provide our team members with skin safety tools.”

Solect’s sun safe protocols are in place at all active job sites, offering on-site sunscreen dispensers, long sleeve and UPF shirts, wide-brimmed UPF hats with protective neck flaps, UV protective sunglasses, and erecting temporary shade structures at worksites. Also Solect hosts an annual Sun Safety training with IMPACT melanoma to educate their workforce.

Beverly Athletic Club Partners with Solect Energy to Install 128 kW Rooftop Solar Array

 

Saves Nearly a Quarter Million Dollars over 10 Years

December 19, 2017 – BEVERLY, MA – Beverly Athletic Club (BAC), the premier health and athletic club on the North Shore, has partnered with Solect Energy, the state’s leading commercial-scale installer of solar energy systems, to install a 128 kilowatt (kW) solar energy system on the athletic center’s roof.  The solar array consists of 320 photovoltaic (PV) panels and is expected to produce 155,041 kilowatt hours (kwH) of energy annually. The power generated will cover 33 percent of the BAC’s energy needs, and is equivalent to the annual charging of 7,752 electric vehicles or 31,008,200 smart phones. It is projected that BAC will save approximately $233,000 over the course of 10 years.

Solect carefully examined BAC’s energy usage patterns and other factors in order to design the optimum solar energy system. Solect then worked to make sure that BAC would achieve maximum ROI through a myriad of solar incentives. BAC is projected to save an average of approximately $23,000 annually on its electricity bill.  Additionally, BAC is able to take advantage of state and federal tax and financial incentives, including SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Certificates), which are financial incentives based on the amount of solar energy the system generates. Electrical utility providers in Massachusetts purchase SRECs to help them meet their state-mandated goals of a percentage of power coming from renewable energy sources.

“Solect did a great job making a complicated proposition clear and straightforward, and they were very helpful in shepherding us through the process, but the best part of this solar project is yet to come,” said Ed Soul, Owner of Beverly Athletic Club. “We anticipate our electric bill dropping by a third. In addition, we are thrilled to be able to lower our carbon footprint, and continue our commitment of being a good steward of the environment.”

BAC has been committed to a variety of green initiatives.  The club recycles, works to reduce paper waste, and has shifted to all LED lighting to reduce power consumption. It also contributes to green initiatives such as Change is Simple, which educates youth on how to be more green and protect our planet.

“Beverly Athletic Club turned to solar to substantially reduce their operating costs, while also pursuing their goal of being an environmental leader in their community,” said Jeff McCallion, Business Development Manager. “The facility’s flat roof made it ideal for installing a large array that could generate a third of their electricity needs. Not only does BAC gain significant financial savings, but they also garner recognition and respect from their members and the community at large for their leadership in sustainable practices.”

BAC will use some of the savings from the solar system to continue making efficiency improvements.  Additionally, funds will be earmarked for the continual updating of club facilities and equipment.

 

About Solect Energy

Solect Energy is a full-service solar photovoltaic (PV) project developer and installer based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, delivering smart solar and energy management solutions to help businesses and organizations reduce energy costs. As an industry leader in commercial-scale solar energy, Solect takes a practical approach to the development, installation and ongoing support of each system. We partner closely with our customers, providing strong financial insight and solar technology expertise to optimize their investment while creating a positive impact on the environment. Solect currently has installed over 75 MW (megawatts) of commercial PV systems, with a primary focus on commercial, light industrial and institutional properties in New England. For more information, visit https://solect.com or follow us on Twitter at @SolectSolar.

sAbout BAC

Founded in 2001, Beverly Athletic Club (BAC) is a family-oriented club with facilities and classes for all ages offered within its expansive 40,000 square foot building.  It boasts state-of-the art fitness equipment, Les Mills Group Exercise programs, Private women only fitness area, personal and small group functional training, Pilates, an Aquatic Center with a 65-foot heated indoor/outdoor pool, indoor basketball court, Baby-sitting, a kids play zone, and Solei Salon and spa and Soul Physical Therapy

Solect Energy Launches Energy Storage Division

Signs Agreement with NEC Energy Solutions

to Sell NEC’s DSS® Products

                                               

November 28, 2017 – Hopkinton, MA – Solect Energy, Massachusetts’ leading commercial-scale developer of solar energy systems with over 400 installed projects, announced today that it is launching an energy storage division. In launching the new division, Solect has signed an agreement with NEC Energy Solutions, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NEC Corporation, to sell NEC’s DSS® (Distributed Storage Solution) product line for commercial customers. NEC is one of the world’s leading energy storage solutions providers with more than 250MW (megawatts) of projects installed or currently under construction.

“We couldn’t be more excited about our collaboration with NEC and the opportunity to bring tremendous additional value to both our existing and new customers,” said Ken Driscoll, CEO of Solect Energy. “We are at the doorstep of the energy storage boom and Solect is extremely well positioned to bring these new solutions to our commercial customers, saving them money and building resiliency.”

Since Massachusetts has some of the highest demand charges in the US, accounting for up to 70% of a commercial customer’s electricity bill, both Solect and NEC anticipate that Massachusetts will be one of the next major markets to see commercial-scale energy storage rapidly grow the way it has in California. Demand charges are based on a customer’s monthly peak load and, according to Solect’s market analysis, up to 70,000 commercial customers in Massachusetts currently pay high enough rates to economically justify installing a storage system to even out their energy load profile and lower their demand charges. When paired with solar, the economics are even better due to tax advantages and other ways to monetize the benefits of both systems working together.

“As Massachusetts’ leading commercial-scale solar energy provider, we are delighted to be working with Solect as a Qualified DSS® Partner. There’s no doubt they are well positioned to become one of the leaders in the solar+storage market here in the Commonwealth,” said Steve Fludder, NEC Energy Solutions CEO. “Over the next few years, we expect energy storage to rapidly expand in Massachusetts as commercial customers look for additional ways to cut costs, reduce emissions and enhance resiliency. We look forward to working with the Solect team to capitalize on that growth.”

“Storage is like adding a turbo charger to your solar system,” said Driscoll. “Whether you are a manufacturing company, a medical imaging facility or even a municipality, if you have high demand charges and you want to reduce them, you should be thinking about energy storage and pairing it with an existing or new solar energy system.”

As a Qualified DSS® Partner for NEC, Solect will act as a reseller and independent contractor, installing, operating and maintaining DSS® energy storage units. The DSS® platform is scalable from 85kWh to 510kWh of energy storage capacity and offers from 100kW up to 710kW of power capability. As a standardized, UL safety-certified, AC-ready system including power conversion system, the DSS® product is preconfigured in outdoor-rated enclosures, compliant with all relevant regulatory and environmental requirements and is backed by up to a 10-year product warranty.

 

About Solect Energy

Solect Energy is a full-service solar photovoltaic (PV) project developer and installer based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, delivering smart solar and energy management solutions to help businesses and organizations reduce energy costs. As an industry leader in commercial-scale solar energy, Solect takes a practical approach to the development, installation and on-going support of each system. We partner closely with our customers, providing strong financial insight and solar technology expertise to optimize their investment while creating a positive impact on the environment. Solect currently has installed over 65 MW (megawatts) of commercial PV systems, with a primary focus on commercial, light industrial and institutional properties in New England. For more information, visit https://solect.com or follow us on Twitter at @SolectSolar.

 

About NEC Energy Solutions

NEC Energy Solutions designs, manufactures, and integrates smart energy storage solutions for the electric grid, behind the meter, and critical power applications. Its scalable distributed energy storage and control systems provide greater grid stability and flexibility to the benefit of both providers and users of electricity. In telecom, datacenter, and other industrial applications, its high performance lithium-ion battery systems provide better value than traditional lead-acid batteries in tough, critical power applications. Learn more at www.neces.com.

 

Temple Aliyah Partners with Solect Energy and PowerOptions to Install 81 kW Rooftop Solar Array

Solar Array is One of State’s Largest Systems on a House of Worship

November 6, 2017 – NEEDHAM, MA – Temple Aliyah, an egalitarian Conservative congregation, has partnered with Solect Energy, the state’s leading commercial-scale installer of solar energy systems, and PowerOptions, the region’s largest energy buying consortium, to install an 81 kilowatt (kW) solar energy system on the synagogue’s roof. The solar array consists of 265 photovoltaic (PV) panels and is expected to produce 85,170 kilowatt hours (kwH) of energy annually. The power generated will cover 92 percent of the synagogue’s energy needs. It is projected that Temple Aliyah will save approximately $6,600 in energy expenses in the first year, and nearly $245,000 over the course of 20 years.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new system was held at Temple Aliyah on Sunday, Nov. 5. Guests included representatives from the synagogue’s solar partners, Solect Energy and PowerOptions; State Rep. Denise Garlick; and Michael Greis of Green Needham Collaborative.

The synagogue’s new solar energy system came to fruition through Solect’s partnership with PowerOptions, which selected Solect as the developer for its small systems solar program. Temple Aliyah has been a member of PowerOptions’ energy buying consortium for several years. When it became clear that the synagogue would pursue solar energy, they again looked to PowerOptions for assistance. Temple Aliyah was able to pursue a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) through PowerOptions’ solar program with Solect Energy. Under the terms of the PPA, Solect owns the synagogue’s system, covering the costs of procuring, installing, operating and maintaining it. Solect then sells the synagogue electricity generated by the array at a substantially reduced, fixed rate — saving Temple Aliyah thousands of dollars each year.

“Temple Aliyah is always looking for opportunities to reduce the synagogue’s carbon footprint and to reduce operational costs,” said Fred Borgenicht, Temple Aliyah’s Vice President of Operations. “Installing solar panels through the PowerOptions program was a no-brainer since they had already done the hard work of conducting a competitive solicitation for the best deal and negotiated the pricing and contract terms.”

“At Temple Aliyah, we are focused on making a better future for our community, both large and small,” said David Farbman, Temple Aliyah President. “We believe that by significantly reducing our carbon footprint by hosting one of the largest solar arrays of any house of worship in the state, we are helping both our synagogue and our wider world at the same time.”

“Temple Aliyah turned to solar to substantially reduce their operating costs,” said Alex Keally, Partner and SVP of Business Operations at Solect Energy. “The Synagogue’s flat roof made it ideal for installing a large array that could generate 90+ percent of their electricity needs. We applaud the synagogue’s leadership on their move to solar, and for now having the distinction of hosting one of the largest solar systems on a house of worship in the state of Massachusetts.”

Said Rabbi Carl Perkins, “Our tradition teaches us that we have a duty ‘to till and to tend’ the precious world which is our collective home. That implies that we must seek to conserve natural resources, including energy. By capturing some of the energy contained in the sunlight falling on our property, we are making progress in our quest to be faithful stewards of this precious collective home which has been entrusted to us.”

“At PowerOptions, our mission is to save nonprofit organizations time and money, so they can focus resources on pursuing their own important missions,“ said PowerOptions President and CEO Cynthia Arcate. “Temple Aliyah’s congregation benefits from cleaner, renewable energy and lower energy costs.”  

 

 

About Solect Energy

Solect Energy is a full-service solar photovoltaic (PV) project developer and installer based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, delivering smart solar and energy management solutions to help businesses and organizations reduce energy costs. As an industry leader in commercial-scale solar energy, Solect takes a practical approach to the development, installation and ongoing support of each system. We partner closely with our customers, providing strong financial insight and solar technology expertise to optimize their investment while creating a positive impact on the environment. Solect currently has installed over 65 MW (megawatts) of commercial PV systems, with a primary focus on commercial, light industrial and institutional properties in New England. For more information, visit https://solect.com or follow us on Twitter at @SolectSolar.

About PowerOptions

PowerOptions is a nonprofit energy buying consortium that delivers cost savings and predictability to nonprofits and the public sector in New England. Headquartered in Boston, PowerOptions serves its nearly 500 members with electricity, natural gas and solar, with combined annual energy sales of approximately $200 million. With a 95 percent member retention rate, a proven supplier selection process and a dedication to personalized customer service, PowerOptions provides programs, services and solutions that educate and bring value to its membership. Established in 1998, any nonprofit or public institution in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut is eligible to participate in this collective purchasing effort. For more information, visit www.poweroptions.org or follow on Twitter at @PowerOptions.

About Temple Aliyah

Temple Aliyah is an egalitarian Conservative congregation in Needham, Massachusetts, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. We are a dynamic and diverse community that embraces people of all ages, backgrounds and lifestyles. With the guidance of Rabbi Carl Perkins, we encourage our members to enrich their Jewish lives, to enhance their Jewish identities, and to engage in lifelong learning.

Solect Energy #1 Massachusetts Rooftop Solar Developer For Businesses and Institutions

Solar Power World & Inc. 5000 Rankings Validate

Solect’s Strategic Market Focus

 

September 12, 2017 – HOPKINTON, MA – Solect Energy, announced today that based on an analysis of Massachusetts Department of Energy (DOER) data, and rankings from Solar Power World and Inc. magazine that the company has once again achieved #1 ranking for commercial-scale solar rooftop providers in Massachusetts.

According to the Mass DOER SREC database, Solect has installed more commercial-scale solar arrays between 50kW-1MW in Massachusetts than any other company.  (Commercial scale projects are commonly defined as systems between 50kW-1MW.) This represents more than 350 individual installations at companies throughout the commonwealth. An analysis of the Massachusetts rankings in Solar Power World magazine’s recent Top Solar Contractors list also shows Solect as the top commercial-scale solar rooftop developer in Massachusetts. Additionally, Solect was ranked 6th in the nation for all commercial solar providers.

The company has also received national recognition for its continued rapid growth. Solect was named the 32nd fastest growing company in Massachusetts and the #2 solar company in the state, according to Inc. magazine’s Inc. 5000 Fastest Company List. The Inc. 5000 is the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The list looks at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment — its independent small and midsized businesses.

This is the 4th consecutive year that Solect has appeared on the Inc. 5000 list. Nationwide, Solect is ranked #1234, a significant jump from last year’s #2756. By sector, Solect is in the top 50 fastest growing energy companies nationwide (#42).

“We are thrilled with our continued top-tier standing in the Solar Power World and Inc. lists,” said Kenneth Driscoll, Solect Energy’s Founder and CEO. “The high rankings, and the fact that so many companies have chosen to work with us, are a validation of our exclusive focus on solar solutions for mid-sized commercial and industrial companies, municipalities and non-profit institutions. Solect will continue our rapid growth by offering our highly regarded O&M services to customers outside our installed based, coupling solar with new storage opportunities and bringing our expertise as a commercial-scale solar energy partner to additional markets.”

The Top Solar Contractors list is developed by Solar Power World to recognize the work completed by solar contractors across the United States. Produced annually, the Top Solar Contractors list celebrates the achievements of U.S. solar developers, subcontractors and installers within the utility, commercial and residential markets.

2016 was a banner year for Solect Energy and the U.S. solar market as a whole. There was more than 14,700 MW of solar installed in the U.S in 2016, nearly doubling the capacity installed in 2015. The commercial solar market continues to be a growth area as more states adopt solar-friendly policies, and businesses become more informed about the significant financial and environmental benefits solar offers.

“The 2017 Top Solar Contractors list features 500 of the best solar contractors in the United States,” said Kelly Pickerel, managing editor of Solar Power World. “From solar hotbeds on the coasts to the up-and-coming Midwest solar market, every installer adding even the smallest solar array to the grid is making a positive impact on our communities. We’re proud to recognize these companies and their efforts to bring solar power to U.S. homes and businesses.”

 

About Solect Energy

Solect is a full-service solar photovoltaic (PV) project developer and installer based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, delivering smart solar and energy management solutions to help businesses and organizations reduce energy costs. As an industry leader in commercial-scale solar energy, Solect takes a practical approach to the development, installation and on-going support of each system. We partner closely with our customers, providing strong financial insight and solar technology expertise to optimize their investment while creating a positive impact on the environment. Solect currently has installed over 65 MW (megawatts) of commercial PV systems, with a primary focus on commercial, light industrial and institutional properties in New England. For more information, visit https://solect.com or follow us on Twitter at @SolectSolar.

MetroWest YMCA Installs 144 kW Solar PV System through Partnership with Solect Energy and PowerOptions

August 24, 2017 – FRAMINGHAM, MA – MetroWest YMCA has partnered with Solect Energy, the state’s leading commercial-scale installer of solar energy systems, and PowerOptions, the region’s largest energy buying consortium, to install a 144 kilowatt (kW) solar energy system on the roof of its Framingham facility. The array consists of 374 photovoltaic (PV) panels, which are projected to produce 154,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy annually. That is enough energy to charge 7,700 electric vehicles or 30,800,000 smart phones annually.  MetroWest YMCA anticipates the array will provide up to 13 percent of its facility’s annual electricity, for a projected yearly savings of more than $10,000.

Programs and services at the MetroWest YMCA’s Framingham location positively impact thousands of children and families each day. The solar array will help to defray energy costs associated with temperature control and operating the indoor pool, and also reduce energy costs associated with the early education center and wellness areas.

Working closely with YMCA Shared Services, MetroWest selected PowerOptions & Solect’s solar program. Under the program, Solect Energy installs, owns, and operates the solar arrays on the YMCA’s roof, and sells the power generated at a fixed rate for a period of 20 years under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) negotiated by PowerOptions.

“The Y believes in the power of relationships and strong community engagement,” said Rick MacPherson, President and CEO at MetroWest YMCA. “Solect Energy’s expertise and track record coupled with their commitment to local philanthropy, made them a perfect fit for our YMCA.  We see Solect not only as a trusted solar provider, but as a true community partner.” MacPherson continued, “We were introduced to PowerOptions through YMCA Shared Services based upon their experience serving the energy needs of many of the area’s Y’s.  Both organizations have been invaluable resources for us.”

PowerOptions also provides the MetroWest YMCA with electricity and natural gas supply.

The MetroWest YMCA had been doing its part to become more environmentally sustainable by encouraging recycling, conserving energy with responsible use policies, and LED lighting initiatives. The addition of solar is a significant step forward in the organization’s sustainability commitment. In addition to this project, the MetroWest YMCA is also exploring future projects that can be powered by solar energy.

“MetroWest YMCA was interested in employing solar energy for a number of compelling reasons,” said Alex Keally, partner and Senior VP of Business Operations at Solect Energy. “They wanted to do their part for the environment, be an example to their members, and reduce energy expenses. All three goals have been accomplished, with the added benefit that savings from the solar array can now be redirected into the valuable programs they offer to the community.”

“At PowerOptions, our mission is to help public entities and nonprofits to save money on energy, so more resources can be directed toward serving our communities,”

said PowerOptions President and CEO Cynthia Arcate. “In addition to cost predictability and savings, MetroWest YMCA implemented their solar project without the need for any upfront costs or ongoing maintenance responsibilities.”

 

About MetroWest YMCA

For more than 55 years, the MetroWest YMCA, has responded to community needs in the MetroWest area and made a significant impact throughout Framingham and the surrounding towns. Annually more than 20,000 children, adults and seniors living and working in MetroWest communities are served by the Y.  Additionally, summer camps in Framingham, at the MetroWest YMCA Clearbrook Family Swim Club, and at the YMCA Family Outdoor Center in Hopkinton offer stimulating skill building, leadership and learning activities for 1,000 youth daily.

Nationally and locally, the Y is a leading nonprofit committed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The MetroWest YMCA’s major goal is to strengthen community.  The Y addresses critical gaps in kids’ education and health. Dedicated to nurturing the potential of youth, the Y serves children through programs and activities that focus on academic enhancement, health, social growth, and safety.

 

About PowerOptions

PowerOptions is a nonprofit energy buying consortium that delivers cost savings and predictability to nonprofits and the public sector in New England. Headquartered in Boston, PowerOptions serves its nearly 500 members with electricity, natural gas and solar, with combined annual energy sales of approximately $200 million. With a 95 percent member retention rate, a proven supplier selection process and a dedication to personalized customer service, PowerOptions provides programs, services and solutions that educate and bring value to its membership. Established in 1998, any nonprofit or public institution in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut is eligible to participate in this collective purchasing effort. For more information, visit www.poweroptions.org or follow on Twitter at @PowerOptions.

 

About Solect Energy

Solect Energy is a full-service solar photovoltaic (PV) project developer and installer based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, delivering smart solar and energy management solutions to help businesses and organizations reduce energy costs. As an industry leader in commercial-scale solar energy, Solect takes a practical approach to the development, installation and on-going support of each system. We partner closely with our customers, providing strong financial insight and solar technology expertise to optimize their investment while creating a positive impact on the environment. Solect currently has installed over 65 MW (megawatts) of commercial PV systems, with a primary focus on commercial, light industrial and institutional properties in New England. For more information, visit https://solect.com or follow us on Twitter at @SolectSolar.

Charles Moore Arena and Solect Energy Complete Rooftop Solar Array

ORLEANS, MA – August  14, 2017 – Charles Moore Arena (CMA), a nonprofit ice rink in Orleans, MA, has collaborated with Solect Energy, the state’s leading commercial installer of solar energy systems based in Hopkinton, MA, to install a 345 kilowatt (kW) rooftop solar system at the arena.  The installation will help stabilize and reduce their biggest operating outlay, as the array will cover 50% of their energy demands.

Built in 1972 as a privately-owned rink, CMA offers programs including Learn to Skate, Summer Cross-Ice Youth Hockey, In-House Hockey, Lower Cape Youth Hockey, and more. Looking for opportunities to save on the cost of electricity, Tony Nannini the Rink Manager at Charles Moore Arena turned to solar energy as the long-term solution.

“Going solar was the perfect opportunity for us to take control of our energy costs, and we’re excited to experience the benefits. It has already helped us solve issues with our roof as well,” Tony said. “We’re also grateful to have worked with the expert team at Solect on the installation, which helped us every step of the way.”

The rooftop array is financed under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Solect, meaning Solect owns and operates the solar array, and sells the power generated back to the arena at a reduced, fixed rate for the duration of the agreement. In this case, CMA enjoys substantial cost savings while avoiding up-front capital outlays.

“We were happy to work with a nonprofit like Charles Moore Arena which brings wonderful community programs to the town of Orleans,” said Bob Plakias, Director of Business Development at Solect Energy. “The solar system was a perfect fit for them; it will help them save on energy costs while having simultaneously fixed their roof, and the environmental benefits are, of course, a plus.”

With the savings gained from the solar array installed by Solect, CMA will now be able to put that money to better use by continuing to operate efficiently and offer skating programs to the community at a lower cost.

 

About Charles Moore Arena

Charles Moore Arena (CMA) is a nonprofit community ice arena located in Orleans, Massachusetts. The rink offers an array of programs including Learn to Skate, Summer Cross-Ice Youth Hockey, In-House Hockey, Lower Cape Youth Hockey, Stick Sessions, Rock Night and Birthday Parties. The CMA is also host to the Lower Cape Coyotes, the travel hockey program, and the Lower Cape Figure Skating Association. The rink holds skating competitions, hockey tournaments and skating shows as well. For more information, visit http://www.charlesmoorearena.org/.

About Solect Energy

Solect is a full-service solar photovoltaic (PV) project developer and installer based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, delivering smart solar and energy management solutions to help businesses and organizations reduce energy costs. As an industry leader in commercial-scale solar energy, Solect takes a practical approach to the development, installation and on-going support of each system. We partner closely with our customers, providing strong financial insight and solar technology expertise to optimize their investment while creating a positive impact on the environment. Solect currently has installed over 57 MW (megawatts) of commercial PV systems, with a primary focus on commercial, light industrial and institutional properties in New England. For more information, visit https://solect.com or follow us on Twitter at @SolectSolar.