First Wind begins commercial operations at 14MW Warren Solar project

First Wind, an independent US-based renewable energy company, has begun commercial operations at the 14MW (AC) Warren Solar project, the second largest solar project in Massachusetts, US.

Located at three sites in the town of Warren, the project construction began in the fall of 2013 following signing of a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with the University of Massachusetts (UMass).

Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Maeve Vallely Bartlett said First Wind is contributing to Massachusetts’ sustainable future with this project, which is also helping to reach Governor Patrick’s goal of 1,600 MW installed by 2020.

"As Massachusetts leads the way in bringing clean energy to homes and business across the Commonwealth, we are thrilled to have partners like First Wind provide a financial boost and local benefits to the area," Bartlett added.

As part of the PPA, a portion of the financial benefit from the Warren projects will be provided to the UMass Lowell campus and UMass Medical School in Worcester.

Over the course of the 30-year agreement, the project would avoid an estimated $410,000 and $670,000 in utility costs per annum for UMass Lowell and UMass Medical School respectively.

UMass Medical School facilities associate vice chancellor John Baker said: "The UMass Medical School portion of the First Wind project will generate enough energy to power roughly 932 homes in New England annually and produce an estimated $400,000 in savings each year for the UMass Medical School."

In addition to delivering clean, renewable energy, First Wind’s Warren solar project serves as an economic boost for local economies.
First Wind CEO Paul Gaynor said: "Not only are we contributing to the state’s aggressive energy goals, but we are also able to directly benefit the surrounding communities with financial and clean energy advantages."