DANBURY — There is a proposal to set up multiple acres for installation
photovoltaic panels
on top of a sealed landfill with a view
Bethel
and the bustling eastern part of the city might save hundreds of thousands of dollars annually
Danbury
The cost of their electricity bill can vary based on the agreement they have with a solar energy provider.
“It’s all about cutting costs,” he mentioned.
Antonio Iadarola
, the city engineer and public works director. “The main uncertainties revolve around how the tariff situation will unfold and whether federal incentives will be available, but the project remains highly worthwhile.”
Iadarola was alluding to a
bid request
The city released a request last week to solar energy suppliers for their most innovative proposals to construct a photovoltaic facility designed to transform sunlight into power on top of the 44-acre closed landfill located within the city limits.
Plumtrees Road
.
The form this agreement will adopt and the extent of the city’s participation remain unclear. Solar companies can submit bids under three potential frameworks: firstly, the municipality could become both the proprietor and manager of the facility; secondly, the solar service provider might assume primary responsibility in return for compensation from the city; finally, an alternative mixed model would establish collaboration between the municipal government and a private solar firm.
“Iadarola informed Hearst Connecticut Media Group on Monday that the market dynamics are shifting rapidly under our feet, and we aim to capitalize on where the market heads next,” he said. “We’re looking at a significant solar project here.”
The concept of capitalizing on
federal incentives
In 2021, Iadarola proposed municipal solar installations along with then-Mayor Joe Cavo.
grass-covered landfill
Adjacent to the extensive public utilities complex is deemed optimal due to the open-hill terrain offering unshaded space.
Initially, the proposal included a 10-acre solar farm designed to meet approximately 75% of the energy requirements for the public works facility. It was estimated that this project would cost around $10 million.
Even though Iadarola mentioned on Monday that the present plan would likely match the financial estimates from 2021 in terms of value, the city has “given this considerably more thought” compared to before.
Iadarola mentioned, “We’ve conducted an extensive analysis of the existing capacity. You might be able to generate as much power as desired, but getting it back onto the grid presents challenges.” He added, “Issues with transmission lines and transformers become significant factors. Additionally, we have developed an initial design for the placement of solar panels. We’re aware of the number of these panels that can be accommodated atop the landfill site.”
The city’s newest environmental program coincides with the growing attention solar farms are receiving in Connecticut.
In Enfield, the
Connecticut Siting Council
approved a $3.75 million solar facility in November after
resistance from residents and officials
Lodestar Energy, based in Avon, intends to install 4,700 solar panels over 12 acres.
In Somers, the state siting board is
reconsidering a solar farm
On 22 acres following Bridgeport-based Santa Fuel suggesting modifications.
And in South Windsor, C-TEC Solar remains a key player.
withdrew a proposal for a solar farm
last summer at a location spanning 16 acres.
Danbury’s proposal for a solar farm, requiring participants to join a site visit on April 21, marks the newest addition to their environmental efforts following the opening of their biodiesel facility designed to convert organic matter into fuel.
convert waste grease into purified fuel
.
The city intends to select a shortlist of solar farm applicants by summertime and carry out interviews around mid-June.