3MW solar project in Connecticut gets final green light from zoning board

The proposed 3MW, US$20 million Ponterril solar project has received its final approval from the zoning board of appeals. The project will be developed across 22 acres of what used to be the Pittsfield Family YMCA’s recreation camp overlooking Pontoosuc Lake. The Berkshire Eagle advised that electricity produced by the project would be sold and transported to Western Massachusetts Electric Company (WMECO) as part of the power gird on North Street. The report confirmed that project officials want to begin work on the project this year, but actual construction timelines will depend on WMECO since it needs to advise what it would cost CTC Electric to make upgrades to the WMECO system in order for it to accept electricity from the new solar project.

CTC Electric will lease the site for US$70,000 to US$75,000 per year for 20 years, with two, 10-year options for renewal. CTC also has 12 conditions it must complete under its special permit, including gifting the city US$25,000 for the repair and upgrades of East Acres Road from North Street to the site’s driveway. Additionally, CTC is required to set aside money to dismantle the solar panels and clear the site if the project is ever decommissioned.