$23 Million Westford Solar Field Planned
Westford is set to become the site for the state's largest privately owned solar plant under a plan by Boston developer Cathartes Private Investment and North Andover solar developer Nexamp.
The two companies plan to begin construction this fall on the $23-million, 4.5-megawatt solar panel field, which will be located on 22 acres of industrial land by Route 3. The companies say the solar field will provide enough electricity for more than 600 homes.
The state has approved a $5.8-million Qualified Energy Conservation Bond for the project. Other financing comes primarily from Cambridge Savings Bank, with Middlesex Bank assisting with the funding.
The developers say the installation will create more than 50 jobs during construction and operations.
Cathartes owns the land and is lead developer for the project. Nexamp is an equity partner and will build and operate the solar field.
Massachusetts has been pushing for solar developments throughout the state with incentives. According to the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, 92 megawatts worth of solar installations were either operational or in the process of being installed as of January, up from just 3.5 megawatts in 2007.
When the project becomes operational, Cathartes will receive solar renewable energy certificates from the state, which can be sold to utilities or other energy suppliers under the Massachusetts Renewable Portfolio Standard.
National Grid will connect the facility to its grid and purchase the power through the Massachusetts net metering law.
The project is scheduled to be built in two phases, each utilizing 7,000 solar panels on 11 acres.
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