Town Solar Power Complex Could Be Operational Within Four Months

in a work session held before the Coventry Town Council general meeting on Nov. 14., Solect Energy Corporation provided information on a 125 KW complex of photovoltaic solar panels they intend to install on the .

By the end of winter, it is likely the town of Coventry will be hooked into a solar network by the Hopkinton, MA firm.

Solar electricity panels of 3 x 5 feet each will be installed on about 1/3 of the total roof surface and will provide 31 percent of the Annex's electrical needs from the sun, said Principals James Dumas and Ken Driscoll.

According to Solect officials, the Coventry grant of $325,000 is the third largest award in the state for this pilot program. “About 56% of the project will be funded through a grant from the Rhode Island Department of Economic Development,” said Driscoll.

“There is also a buy-out option after five years and there are other federal and state tax incentives. You can get credit for power and sell it to other entities.”

“This almost seems like a no-brainer to approve this project,” said Town Council President Gary Cote. “There is no cash outlay and it will have no impact to the citizens of Coventry.”