WMECo has been authorized by the Department of Public Utilities to build up to 6 megawatts (MW) of solar facilities before the end of 2012. Our solar program focuses on developing large-scale solar facilities on sites that offer economies of scale and cost-effective energy production. Of particular interest are capped landfills and environmentally challenged sites that have few or very restricted alternative uses. WMECo’s large-scale solar program contributes to Massachusetts’ goal to install 250 megawatts (MW) of solar energy by 2017.

The eight acre, 1.8 megawatt (MW) Silver Lake Solar facility located in Pittsfield has performed exceedingly well, generating power every single day since its opening in October 2010.

In April 2011, WMECo proudly received the Photovoltaic Projects of Distinction Award from the Solar Electric Power Association and the Solar Energy Industries Association in recognition of the Silver Lake Solar facility. In June, the Environmental Business Council of New England presented WMECo with the John A.S. McGlennon Environmental Award of Corporate Leadership for the facility.

Watch a time-lapse video of the solar facility’s construction.

View live solar generation data at the Silver Lake Solar Photovoltaic Facility.

A second, larger solar facility has been generating power since November 2011. Located on twelve acres of brownfield in the Indian Orchard neighborhood of Springfield, the facility contains 8,200 solar panels and produces 2.3 megawatts of electricity—enough to power 500 homes.

The planning for future solar energy generation sites is underway, as WMECo continues to expand the horizons of large-scale solar development in order to safely and reliably deliver power to all of its customers.

View live solar generation data at the Indian Orchard Solar Photovoltaic Facility

Browse News Releases for more information on WMECo’s large-scale solar program.