Officials Back Approval Of Large Solar Farm In East Windsor

EAST WINDSOR, CT — Local and state officials representing East Windsor are pleased with Thursday's announcement of the Connecticut Siting Council's approval of the largest solar development in the northeastern United States.

Gravel Pit Solar, a 120-megawatt solar project, will be built on 485 acres of land in the Plantation Rd. area of East Windsor including fields, woods and quarries. The project is anticipated to produce enough clean energy to power over 12,000 homes.

Construction is expected to begin this year. Connecticut has purchased 20 megawatts of power and Rhode Island has purchased 50, with the remainder to be sold to additional buyers.

The East Windsor project is expected to be a large source of property tax revenue for the town, with an agreement requiring owners to pay $378,000 annually for 20 years, plus a $1.5 million impact payment at the beginning of construction. It is also expected for the project to spur significant job growth.

"I am exceptionally proud to see this project win approval," First Selectman Jason Bowsza said. "This project has been under development since just after I took office, and it presents an opportunity for East Windsor to be a part of the state’s renewable energy goals while seeing a significant increase in local tax revenue for the town."

State Rep. Jamie Foster said, "This project will have a far-reaching impact on the town of East Windsor. As a supporter of clean energy, I am thrilled that the largest solar farm in the Northeast will be in my community. In addition to the environmental benefits, the project will generate local job opportunities as well. Although farmland is included in this project, it is important to remember that the land can be used for farming after the life of the solar panels end."

"This project represents a major opportunity for East Windsor, not only in the economic benefits of hosting such a solar development but the environmental benefits that will come with such an increase in renewable energy accessibility in our state," state Sen. Saud Anwar said. "This will bolster local use of land and provide benefits locally and across Connecticut."

Courtesy of Town of East Windsor

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