Baltimore Welcomes New Rooftop Solar Project to Enhance Energy Sustainability

Baltimore's Rooftop Solar Initiative

In an ambitious move towards sustainable energy, Broad Street Realty, in collaboration with Centennial and AccelDev, has announced the successful completion of a rooftop solar installation at the Hollinswood Shopping Center located in Baltimore County, Maryland. This notable project involves a substantial 1 MW(dc) solar capacity, which aims to bring about significant changes in the local energy landscape.

Significance of the Project

The Hollinswood Shopping Center solar project is designed to reduce electricity costs for roughly 1,000 residences in the surrounding area, while simultaneously increasing the overall power output in the state of Maryland. This initiative not only addresses the growing demand for renewable energy sources but also enhances the region's grid resilience by utilizing solar power.

Equipped with over 1,500 solar panels, the installation is built on a 100,000 square foot rooftop, utilizing a ballasted racking system that ensures durability and efficiency. The project is a continuation of Broad Street Realty and Centennial's commitment to expanding solar energy capabilities in commercial spaces, building on previous successes, such as the 2.4 MW(dc) installation at Cromwell Shopping Center. Both projects signify a joint effort to promote clean energy solutions while supporting local communities.

Collaboration and Financing

The project came to fruition through a well-coordinated cooperation between several stakeholders. Centennial took charge of the project’s development while the construction services were provided by Halo, a recognized solar engineering contractor. Financial backing was ensured through AccelDev, with Madison Energy Infrastructure maintaining ownership and operating responsibilities for the long duration of the project.

Michael Jacoby, Chairman and CEO of Broad Street Realty, expressed enthusiasm for the project’s completion, stating, "We're thrilled to collaborate again with Centennial and MEI to bring solar energy to Hollinswood Shopping Center. These recent solar projects align with our company's commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and implementing ESG-focused initiatives across our properties. Together, we're contributing to Maryland's goals of supporting our local communities with reduced electricity costs for families."

David John Frenkil, the founder of Centennial, highlighted the impact this project will have on both the commercial real estate sector and the local energy economy. He remarked, "The rooftop solar project at Hollinswood Shopping Center is a prime example of how owners of commercial real estate can grow their net operating income while contributing to efforts to lower electricity costs for households and businesses in Maryland, a state that currently imports nearly 40% of the electricity that it consumes."

Looking Forward

Chip Brubaker, President of AccelDev, added to the narrative by emphasizing the importance of strategic financing and strong partnerships in making projects like Hollinswood possible: "The Hollinswood project shows how strategic financing and strong partnerships can provide meaningful benefits for the customers and the communities they serve."

The completion of the rooftop solar project at Hollinswood Shopping Center signifies a clear commitment from Broad Street Realty and its partners to utilize innovative, sustainable solutions across their properties. This project not only enhances the operational efficiency of the shopping center but also contributes to a more sustainable future for Baltimore County and the wider Maryland area. As these initiatives progress, they pave the way for a greener energy landscape, ensuring both economic and environmental benefits remain at the forefront of urban development.

For individuals and families in the area, this initiative promises a dual benefit: reduced electricity bills and a cleaner, more sustainable source of power. The momentum built by these renewable energy projects underscores the upward trend of solar energy adoption in Maryland, further advocating for the importance of green energy investments and projects that benefit local communities.