The 4.9 MW Woodville community solar system is providing Rhode Island residents and businesses with locally produced clean energy. Located in Richmond, Rhode Island, the array is offsetting the cost of electricity bills in a state with some of the highest electricity rates in the nation due to factors like a limited pipeline capacity and high energy demand. The array is also helping Rhode Island meet its goal of transitioning to 100% renewable energy by 2033, as mandated by legislation passed in 2022.
Standard Solar acquired the ground mount project from developer Freepoint Solar and is its long-term owner and operator. The array is part of Standard Solar’s steadily expanding community solar portfolio in the state. The project is part of Rhode Island’s Renewable Energy Growth Program, a state program administered by Rhode Island Energy to support the development of new distributed renewables projects.
“Providing much-needed relief from rising energy costs to customers is critical to furthering the clean energy economy, and collaborating with partners like Freepoint Solar brings us a step closer to that goal,” said Harry Benson, Director of Business Development, Standard Solar. “This project, which serves hundreds in the community, plays a significant part in transitioning Rhode Island into a 100 percent renewable energy state by 2033.”
The Woodville Community Solar System produces 7,700 MWh of clean energy each year, equivalent to offsetting the carbon emissions of 3,655,423 pounds of coal or the annual electricity use by 648 homes. The array is also helping to bolster long-term investment, savings and job growth opportunities in the region.
“Freepoint Solar is pleased to have teamed with Standard Solar on the Woodville Project and continues to look for opportunities in New England to support the region’s transition toward a renewable future,” said Peter Ford, Managing Director of Freepoint Solar.
