New Bedford recognized for leadership in solar power

The City of New Bedford has been awarded by a New England energy policy association for the City’s leadership in solar power.

The City’s 10 major solar power installations are saving city taxpayers $1 million annually, by cutting the utility bills of city departments. Over a 20-year period, the solar projects are projected to save city government $22 million. A New England energy policy association recently recognized New Bedford for its leadership in solar power

The Solar Energy Business Association of New England (SEBANE) recently presented the City with the association’s Solar Leadership Award at the Local Level, noting the City’s prominence in solar power development.

With a portfolio of 16.25 MW in solar installations, the City of New Bedford, on a per capita basis, ranks among the top solar municipalities in the continental United States. For its efforts, the City’s leadership has been profiled in The Wall Street Journal and other leading publications. Today, ten major solar installations totaling more than $53 million in privately financed construction are saving city taxpayers $1 million annually by cutting the utility bills of city departments. Over a 20-year period, the solar projects are projected to save city government $22 million.

“Offshore wind may be grabbing headlines, but solar power also has been a key part of our renewable energy portfolio and has saved city taxpayers millions of dollars,” Mayor Jon Mitchell said. “We’re honored that SEBANE has recognized our efforts on this front over the last several years.”