18 MW Vermont Solar Project Portfolio Represents Significant Leap Forward for Clean Energy in the State
Six projects totaling 18 MW, owned and operated by Standard Solar and acquired from local developer and long term partner MHG Solar, are providing clean, renewable energy to Vermont’s electric utilities under the state’s Standard Offer Program.
The community solar projects are spread across the state and represent a substantial commitment on Standard Solar’s part to promote clean energy in the Green Mountain State. They include Evergreen Solar, 2.9 MW in Fair Haven; Halladay Solar, 3.3 MW in Middlebury; Midway Solar, 3.3. MW in Berlin; Steinberg Solar, 3.3 MW in Brandon; Stone Mill Solar, 2.8 MW in Castleton; and Trolley Tracks Solar, 2.8 MW in Poultney.
“We firmly believe in the transformative power of solar energy, and this acquisition allowed us to play a vital role in helping Vermont achieve its renewable energy targets,” said Eric Partyka, Director of Business Development at Standard Solar. After the acquisition, Standard Solar worked with local authorities and stakeholders to seamlessly integrate the solar projects into the existing energy infrastructure.
The six systems produce clean electricity that helps power thousands of homes and businesses and curbs greenhouse gas emissions. The community solar portfolio has also nurtured local job opportunities, promoted economic prosperity and community development, and allowed countless state residents to benefit from solar savings who might not otherwise have access.
“MHG is exclusively focused on developing thoughtfully located, high-quality, clean energy projects in Vermont to help guide the State forward on its continued path as a national leader in renewable energy commitments,” said one of MHG’s Owners, Thomas Hand. “This portfolio represented another big step in that direction. We’re excited for the future of renewable energy in Vermont.”
The power purchase agreement (PPA) is with VEPP Inc., the Standard Offer Facilitator for existing and new Standard Offer Projects. Vermont’s Standard Offer Program is a feed-in-tariff program that forwards renewables deployment by requiring utilities to buy power from qualified, small-scale generators at a fixed, long-term price.
“It is important to highlight and acknowledge the supportive, positive policy framework that the state of Vermont provides through VEPP’s Standard Offer RFP process, which makes these projects possible,” noted Eric Partyka.
