When Belmont Light (BL) proposed building a new 115kv substation two years ago, Jim Palmer, BL’s General Manager, stated at the precinct meetings and at Town Meeting that rooftop solar would be part of the project. The solar array on the building’s rooftop is a crucial aspect of the project for me and likely other Town Meeting Members who voted for it. I am surprised and disappointed to learn that the design presented by BL to the Planning Board for site plan review showed no solar array. Why would BL leave off the solar? A lease arrangement similar to the Wellington solar project would cost BL nothing and installation at the time of construction is easier and more economical compared to a later retrofit. The first thing you see on BL’s new rebranded website is a flashy banner of solar panels and BL says that they “....share its customers’ commitment to emission-free renewable energy.” BL talks the talk, but what happened to the walk? Renewable energy is critical to meeting the Town’s stated energy goals. I urge the Municipal Light Advisory Board and Board of Selectmen (acting as the Belmont Municipal Light Board) to direct BL to put solar back on the substation.
Roger Wrubel, TMM Pct. 5
Sustainable Belmont shares member letters and articles in support of its overall mission, which is to help Belmont become more environmentally friendly.
