Somersworth begins 2.5 MW landfill solar project

US-based Ameresco, Inc., a leading cleantech integrator, and the City of Somersworth have initiated a solar project at the Somersworth Landfill. As per Ameresco, the project, approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, will feature a 2,577 kW-DC / 1,992 kW-AC capacity. It is projected to generate 3,523,443 kWh in its first year and over 67 million kWh in 20 years. The company claims this will reduce CO2 emissions by 2,461 metric tons annually. The energy will be sold to Somersworth under a group net metering program, with the city benefiting from lease payments and Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT). Construction is set to start by mid to late August, repurposing city-owned land for long-term environmental gains.