Located in Middlesex County, within the MetroWest subregion of Greater Boston, the Framingham School District has a rich history, dating back to 1706 when its first schoolmaster was hired, and 1792, with the opening of its first high school.

Goals and opportunities

The Framingham Sustainability, Public Works, and School District departments have collectively set ambitious goals to introduce renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies across all their public buildings. After the successful completion of the new Christa McAuliffe Branch Library, the city engaged Solect Energy through its PowerOptions membership to assess the potential for solar and energy storage projects for the library and its multiple municipal and school properties. As a bustling municipality, Framingham strategically prioritizes projects and initiatives to achieve its sustainability and cost-saving objectives. Its continued collaboration with Solect Energy on additional solar projects reflects its strong commitment to sustainability, decarbonization, and energy efficiency.

Solution

Christa McAuliffe Branch Library

Solect developed the rooftop solar project for the Christa McAuliffe Branch Library by collaborating closely with the library commissioner and the city to optimize the project. During renovations to the library’s stormwater and hardscape infrastructure, Solect provided engineering expertise to design canopy foundations, integrate stormwater attachments, and facilitate upgrading the electrical infrastructure to support a solar parking canopy.

Fuller Middle School

When Framingham began constructing a new elementary school, Solect joined the project team early to align with the design, engineering, and installation schedules. This behind-the-meter (BTM) solar + storage project leverages the SMART incentive program, delivering a significant percentage of the school’s electricity needs while effectively managing building load and participating in utility energy incentive programs. It reduces demand charges and unlocks revenue from demand response and other energy markets.

Results

Year 1 savings generated by the Fuller Middle School Solar projects: $5,700

With a combined system size of 1.75 MW+, an output of 900,000 kWh, and a battery system that generates savings and revenue for the district, these solar energy projects deliver significant financial and environmental benefits. Visitors can charge their EVs and explore the energy storage system up close, experiencing a hands-on ‘energy lab’ environment. The city is also offsetting a significant amount of carbon through these projects. The projects comprise a modern public space with covered parking, EV charging stations, and cutting-edge energy technology, creating a ‘living energy lab’ on the school campus that embodies sustainable innovation.