Salem Awarded $1.7 Million Grant for Two Solar Projects at Salem Schools

SALEM, MA — The City of Salem has received a $1.7 million grant from the state for the installation of two solar projects at Salem schools. Gov. Charlie Baker announced Thursday that the grant will fund Solar energy systems at Witchcraft Heights and Bentley elementary schools.

“Massachusetts is a national leader in embracing clean, emerging technologies,” said Baker in a press release. “By embracing clean solar energy technologies, Salem will save hundreds of thousands of dollars going forward that can be reinvested in other vital municipal functions.”

According to Baker's announcement, the 430 kW (kilowatt) system at Bentley will offset an estimated $75,996 in annual electric costs, and the 491 kW system at Witchcraft Heights is estimated to offset $86,772 in yearly electrical costs. The combined capacity of the projects is estimated to generate enough energy to offset 100 percent of the electricity needs to the two buildings, according to the announcement.

“The installation of two solar arrays at Salem public schools will have long-term positive economic and environmental benefits for Salem and our Commonwealth as a whole,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton in a press release. “The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to working with our municipal partners across Massachusetts to lower energy consumption and reduce emissions.”

Salem has been designated as a green community since 2010, and has received nearly $700,000 in grants for energy efficiency. Salem is one of 155 Green Communities in Massachusetts.

“This grant re-affirms Salem's designation as a proud Green Community and demonstrates our commitment to renewable energy which benefits our city environmentally and economically,” said State Representative Paul Tucker (D-Salem) in the release. “I am grateful to Governor Baker and the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs for this investment which will pay dividends well into the future