Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE: AMRC), a leading cleantech integrator in energy efficiency and renewable energy, and the City of Somersworth celebrated the groundbreaking of a significant solar photovoltaic (PV) installation at the Somersworth Landfill. The event, which included representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), marked the start of a project designed to enhance the community’s sustainability efforts and transform City-owned land into a renewable energy asset.
The solar PV project, boasting a capacity of 2,577 kW-DC / 1,992 kW-AC, is projected to produce 3,523,443 kWh in its first year, totaling over 67 million kWh over two decades. This output is expected to offset 2,461 metric tons of CO2 annually—equivalent to the yearly electricity consumption of 486 homes, the emissions of 586 gas-powered cars, or the carbon sequestration of 2,874 acres of U.S. forests.
Mayor Matt Gerding of Somersworth remarked, “This solar project is a crucial step in advancing our community’s sustainability goals and aligns with other regional and state initiatives. It’s vital that we embrace green energy as part of our broader energy strategy. I am thrilled to see this long-awaited project move forward, making productive use of City-owned land that had limited potential. My thanks go to the City Council, City staff, and Ameresco for their dedication and collaboration in making this public-private partnership a reality. I also appreciate the support from our regulatory partners, including the EPA and NH DES, for their role in bringing this project to fruition.”
Mayor Gerding added, “This project exemplifies Somersworth’s commitment to joining our neighboring communities in working towards a greener, cleaner future.”
The energy generated will be sold to the City of Somersworth through the state’s group net metering program. The project will also provide the City with lease payments and a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT). All necessary permits and approvals from the EPA and the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NH DES) have been secured, with construction slated to commence in mid to late August.
Jon Mancini, Senior Vice President of Ameresco, stated, “We are proud to partner with the City of Somersworth on this groundbreaking landfill solar project. This initiative showcases the potential for repurposing land for renewable energy and making landfills more sustainable. We look forward to starting construction and contributing to the city’s clean energy future.”
The groundbreaking event was attended by Congressman Chris Pappas, Mayor Matt Gerding, EPA and NH DES representatives, City of Somersworth officials, and Ameresco executives, all of whom celebrated this milestone toward a more sustainable future for the city.
