Mass Tank is New England’s largest steel tank manufacturer, combining 90 years of fabrication experience and excellence. They partnered with Solect and IGS Solar to install a 457 kW system on Mass Tank’s 60,000-sq-ft manufacturing facility in Middleborough, Mass. The energy is sold to Middleborough Gas & Electric to support the town’s growing energy demands.

Challenge

Mass Tank first thought about renewable energy solutions when they became one of the contracted manufacturers for the Cape Wind project, a large offshore wind farm located in federal waters off the coast of Cape Cod. Interested in developing a clean energy economy and reducing their energy costs, Mass Tank decided to install and own a solar energy system on their campus. However, due to regulations sanctioned by the local municipal utility Middleborough Gas & Electric, they soon discovered that a “behind-the-meter” solar installation, where energy is generated and consumed directly on-site, was prohibited.

Solution

Mass Tank approached Middleborough Gas & Electric to propose a solar solution for both entities to support and benefit from. The municipal utility was interested, as such an arrangement would help mitigate peak demand, reducing customer costs while increasing power reliability. With Middleborough Gas & Electric on board, Mass Tank signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Solect and IGS Solar, under which IGS leases the roof space from Mass Tank to host the array, own the system, and sell the solar electricity generated to Middleborough Gas & Electric.

Results

According to the 20-year agreement, Mass Tank earns rental income from their roof from investor and array owner, IGS. On the other hand, Middleborough businesses and residents benefit from the local solar energy added to the supply mix without the costs and liabilities associated with owning a system.