Veolia and Nautilus Solar Energy, both New England-based sustainable energy solutions developers, have unveiled the 6.5-megawatt (MW) Exeter Mail solar installation in Exeter, Rhode Island.
Announced in 2021, construction is now complete, and the project is one of three sites supplying clean energy to the state’s grid in exchange for utility bill credits for regional housing authorities. As a result, their operating costs are being lowered, ultimately reducing energy prices for public housing residents.
The Exeter Mail installation is the largest of the three currently in operation. Combined, the projects are expected to save over $35 million in energy costs over the next 20 years.
The collaboration between PHARI, Nautilus, and Veolia is the first of its kind in the U.S., encompassing multiple public housing authorities under one renewable energy contract.
The market value of the generation from the projects will be distributed among nine housing authorities in Rhode Island, including Providence, North Providence, Newport, Cranston, Smithfield, Warwick, Warren, Bristol and Lincoln.
“This solar installation marks an important milestone in our mission to make clean energy more accessible,” said Jeffrey Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Nautilus Solar, in a statement. “By delivering the benefits of community solar directly to public housing residents, we’re pioneering a model that supports renewable energy goals while delivering long-term economic benefits to the local community. Rhode Island continues to be a key state for innovation in clean energy access, and we’re proud to continue growing our investment in the state while building stronger, more resilient communities.”
In total, the three sites will generate 20 million kWh annually, removing approximately 13,500 metric tons of greenhouse gases, or the equivalent of taking over 3,000 cars off the road.
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