Norwich Bulletin (CT)-June 25, 2010
Section: News
Page: B1, B2
Salem's municipal complex is going green.
Last week, First Selectman Kevin Lyden signed an agreement with Glastonbury-based DCS Energy to install solar panels on four town-owned buildings in a move he says will save $8,000 a year in electricity costs.
"This is a good fit for our town. We're excited about it," Lyden said.
With a total estimated value of nearly $300,000, the systems would be impossible to implement if officials had to pay for them on the open market, Lyden said. But DCS Energy will install the panels at no cost to the town and recoup money through tax credits.
After a five-year lease period, DCS will remove them or sell the systems to the municipality for $1 each.
According to estimates by the company and town officials, the systems will provide up to 20 percent of each building's energy consumption.
The company will outfit Salem's library, salt shed, public works garage and Town Hall with the panels later this summer. Each system has a life span of up to 25 years.
"If solar power hasn't made leaps and bounds in efficiency in five years, we can pursue a more effective system," Lyden said.
Earlier this month, the Board of Selectmen unanimously approved the agreement with DCS Energy, and Salem's Library board of trustees followed.
"I certainly don't think it's a bad thing to show residents we're doing everything we can to try and cut costs," library board member Elizabeth Householder said.
"This is some way we can get involved and save the town money."
Possible 5th building Lyden said he'll pitch DCS's offer to the Gardner Lake Fire Department on Monday, which could result in a fifth building being added to Salem's solar portfolio.
The town also is setting up a website that will let the public view real-time energy consumption data.
"I think that will be exciting, especially for the kids.
They'll get to see how energy works in a building that they are actually using," Lyden said.
Record Number: 905486293
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