#United States #Ridgefield, Connecticut #Connecticut Green Bank #Ridgefield High School #Davis Hill Development

Ridgefield High School Activates Innovative 1 MW Solar Carport

In a significant step towards sustainable living and energy independence, Ridgefield High School has unveiled a leading-edge solar carport project that harnesses 1,038 kW of solar power. This initiative not only embodies the community's commitment to fiscal responsibility but also propels them closer to their clean energy goals. Partnering with Davis Hill Development and the Connecticut Green Bank, Ridgefield aims to generate substantial electricity savings and significantly reduce its carbon footprint.

The installed solar carport is anticipated to produce around 1.3 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy each year—an output equivalent to the energy consumption of nearly 100 homes. What makes this installation stand out is its economic impact; it is projected to save the school system approximately $1.5 million over the next 25 years.

Micah Brill, Vice President of Asset Management at Davis Hill Development, emphasizes the project's community-driven origins: "This project demonstrates what is achievable when visionary communities collaborate with strong partnerships. Ridgefield's clarity of vision, matched with the resources from the Green Bank and Patriot Renewable Energy Capital, has made this project a reality, bringing tangible savings and clean energy to the town."

This ambitious project also showcases an innovative financial structure. It was financially supported by the Connecticut Green Bank along with a tax equity investment from Patriot Renewable Energy Capital. The engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) tasks were handled by AEC Solar, who completed the installation in a swift timeline, ensuring that the school operation was minimally disrupted.

In light of the current focus on federal investment tax credits enabled by the Inflation Reduction Act, this initiative serves as a reminder of how effective national policies can manifest in local projects, resulting in both cost savings and a positive environmental impact.

Mariana Cardenas Trief, Director of Investments at Connecticut Green Bank, added, "At the Green Bank, our primary objective is to cultivate partnerships that empower the realization of clean energy benefits across communities, including significant energy savings and local job support. This solar carport project is one of many that we have accomplished in collaboration with DHD Renewables and the Town of Ridgefield, and it marks another stride towards a more sustainable future."

The solar carport’s unique configuration integrates seamlessly with four different electric meters owned by the town and the school, maximizing the efficiency of on-site solar generation. The project fully participates in Connecticut's Non-Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (NRES) and various renewable energy credit programs, such as Zero Emission Renewable Energy Credits (ZRECs).

Moreover, this solar initiative adds to Ridgefield’s continual efforts towards sustainability which began nearly a decade ago. With eight rooftop solar installations already operational at different schools and municipal buildings, this solar carport reinforces the significant commitment Ridgefield has made towards sustainable energy.

About Davis Hill Development

Davis Hill Development (DHD) is known as a pioneering clean energy developer that provides comprehensive solar and storage solutions that deliver multiple benefits to the environment, economy, and local communities. Operating since 2013, the company has undertaken nearly 200 energy projects across 15 states, aiming to aid municipalities, businesses, and landowners in reducing energy costs through innovative solar installations.

About the Connecticut Green Bank

Established in 2011, the Connecticut Green Bank has become a cornerstone in promoting green energy within the state, supporting the growth of nearly 30,000 green jobs. Its mission is to combat climate change by increasing investments into Connecticut's green economy, and its efforts have reduced the energy burden on over 71,000 families, businesses, and nonprofit organizations.

About Patriot Renewable Energy Capital

Patriot Renewable Energy Capital is a recognized provider of tax equity for renewable energy projects on a national level, with a specialization in maximizing the value derived from federal tax credits. With an impressive portfolio, including over $150 million invested, the firm supports diverse renewable energy assets, marking a commitment to sustainable future endeavors.