South Portland-based ReVision Energy has installed more than 700 rooftop solar panels at Biddeford High School to supply half of the school’s electricity and help generate citywide cost savings.
The system is expected to generate more than 439,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, and offset roughly 430,000 pounds of carbon emissions, according to the Biddeford superintendent’s office. A kilowatt hour is the energy delivered by one kilowatt of power for one hour.
In addition to the high school installation, a solar array located at 10 Maplewood Ave. in Biddeford will augment the school district’s renewable energy capacity.
The systems were installed with no upfront or ongoing maintenance costs to the district, thanks to a power purchase agreement.
Cambridge, Mass.-based Blue Haven Solar helped finance the $1.49 million project, allowing the school department to access energy at a fixed, reduced rate without adding to the city’s tax rate.
Estimated savings are projected to reach $299,000 during the first five years and exceed $2.1 million over the full 25-year-term, depending on the length of the contract and energy usage patterns.
Educational opportunities
The solar installations are also offering educational opportunities. During construction, ReVision Energy representatives collaborated with science teachers to discuss how the system could be incorporated into science, technology and environmental studies curricula.
“This project is both an environmental and financial win for our community,” said Jeremy Ray, Biddeford’s superintendent of schools. “During a time when basic utility costs continue to rise significantly, we are taking proactive steps to reduce overall operating costs while also modeling responsible, forward-thinking practices for our students.”
