Nautilus Solar Energy, an owner-operator of solar projects throughout the United States, marked the opening of a 7-MW community solar farm in North Berwick, Maine. Constructed on a former sand pit, this project represents the transformation of compromised land into a productive source of clean energy, local jobs and economic growth for the local community.
Credit: Nautilus Solar Energy
Thirty-five percent of the development of the community solar farm was provided by local skilled workers in the construction, engineering and electrical fields. An additional 20 to 25 full-time positions were created for ongoing electrical and site vegetation management crews.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the opening of this unique community solar farm in North Berwick,” said Eric LaMora, executive director of community solar at Nautilus. “By repurposing a former sand quarry, we have achieved much more than clean energy generation. This project serves as a shining example of the potential to unlock local job opportunities and stimulate economic growth. We are proud to contribute to a sustainable and prosperous future for the entire community.”
Endurance Clean Energy developed this community solar project. In 2021, Nautilus acquired the quarry community solar farm, along with three other projects totaling 25.4 MWDC, from Endurance. Nautilus is the long-term owner and operator of the community solar farm, responsible for project management, asset management, maintenance services and subscriber acquisition.
“Our team worked diligently with the quarry owner-operator, town and state to properly manage the land use transition from sand to solar. We are excited to see those efforts realized today,” said Michael Lucini, president of Endurance Clean Energy. “Previously, this site contributed to building Maine for many years. Now, it will contribute to sustainably powering Maine for many more years.”
The newly inaugurated community solar farm provides clean energy to 66 commercial off-takers within the Central Maine Power utility territory and has an annual production of 10 million kWh.
Qualified under the Maine Net Energy Billing Commercial program, the community solar project gives subscribers the opportunity to reduce their monthly utility bills as well as their carbon footprint. It enables residents and businesses throughout Maine, who previously faced obstacles accessing or affording solar energy, to participate in the community solar program. Through this initiative, residents can save 15% on their monthly utility bill without the need for complex and expensive rooftop installations.
News item from Nautilus Solar Energy
