ConEdison Development, a developer of large-scale, solar power installations, has completed a 3.5-MW ground-mounted solar facility in Groveland, Mass., that will be dedicated to the memory of Howard Hill, a Groveland native who served the Groveland Electric Light Department for more than 40 years.
A decorated World War II hero and one of the community’s best-loved personalities, Hill played an instrumental role in the modernization of the light department as its long-time manager.
The site comprises more than 12,670 solar panels, and the installation generates enough power to provide electricity for 525 average-sized homes. One of the largest such installations in the commonwealth, the site began generating electrical power in December.
“Community by community, Massachusetts continues to build its national leadership in renewable energy and efficiency,” said Mark Sylvia, Department of Energy Resources commissioner. “I congratulate Groveland on taking this exciting step to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs.”
Bob Brady, commissioner of the Groveland Electric Light Department, said Groveland takes a quiet pride in its dedication to preserving natural resources.
“This substantial solar array underscores our commitment to environmental preservation,” he said.
With a population of some 6,400 people, Groveland is a rural town in northeastern Massachusetts about 30 miles north of Boston.
The solar installation, owned by Groveland Solar LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Con Edison Development Inc., was developed in cooperation with the Groveland Electric Light Department. Permitting and environmental expertise was provided by Cammet Engineering and construction was performed by Gehrlicher Solar America Corp. and Mass. Electric Construction Co. Under a long-term power purchase agreement with Groveland Solar LLC, the entire output of the installation is being sold to the Groveland Electric Light Department for consumption within the town.
