May 21 2015
Nexamp, a leading provider of solar energy, today celebrated the operation of a 500kW solar project in Richmond, RI. Built on a portion of 6.8 acres of previously unused land near Interstate 95, the array will generate new tax revenue for the town while producing enough solar energy to power over 100 homes.
A new 500kW solar project in Richmond, RI will generate new tax revenue for the town while producing enough solar energy to power more than 100 homes.
Officials in attendance included Representative Justin Price, Senator Elaine Morgan, RI Office of Energy Resources Commissioner Marion Gold, Chariho Schools Superintendent Barry Ricci and Richmond Town Council President Henry Oppenheimer.
The Richmond solar array supported at least 25 new jobs for Rhode Islanders during its construction. Moreover, the installation provides a "learning laboratory" to students of the Chariho Regional School District's Career and Technical Center, who will gain real-world insight into the growing role of renewables in the state's energy mix.
"This is an exciting day for the town of Richmond and its surrounding communities," said Commissioner Gold. "With this one project we are reducing energy consumption, utilizing previously unused space, offering educational opportunities for students of the Chariho Regional School District and protecting the environment. Public-private partnerships were key to making this concept a reality. I commend the many parties who made this solar array possible and look forward to working with the town of Richmond and other Rhode Island municipalities to further reduce our energy footprint."
To date, Nexamp has installed 3.1 MW of solar capacity in the State of Rhode Island, including an 8,500 panel array at the Quonset Business Park. Combined, these facilities produce enough solar energy to power 600 homes. This year, the company hopes to double solar capacity and its number of employees in Rhode Island.
"The Richmond project was a collaborative effort that demonstrates the educational, economic and environmental benefits of solar power," said Nexamp CEO Zaid Ashai. "These projects, big and small, can have a significant positive impact on the community, and Nexamp is excited to be a part of many more across Rhode Island."