Massachusetts State energy officials have approved over $1 million in funding to support upgrades to hydroelectric facilities in Orange, Ware, and West Springfield in a bid to increase the US state’s clean energy generation.
Massachusetts State energy officials have approved over $1 million in funding to support upgrades to hydroelectric facilities in Orange, Ware, and West Springfield in a bid to increase the US state’s clean energy generation.
The funding, provided by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center’s (MassCEC) Hydropower Program, will be given to three projects that together will see output increased by around 1.2 million kWh per year.
The Mini-Watt hydroelectric project in Orange will receive $500,000 to help reduce leakage, replace equipment with more efficient models and install a fully-automated system that can be controlled via smart phone. A further $478,000 will go to Pioneer Hydro Electric Co of Ware to allow the company to make comprehensive upgrades that increase both the electrical generation capacity and efficiency of its facility. Finally, A & D Hydro, Inc of West Springfield will receive $68,831 to go towards replacing the trash racks and trash raking machine and reprogramming the rake’s automation and control system.
"In filing legislation for the procurement of cost-effective, low-carbon hydropower, our administration recognizes the importance of improving renewable energy facilities to help the Commonwealth continue to lead the way on clean energy, energy efficiency and the adoption of innovative technologies," said Governor Charlie Baker. "These grants to make hydropower facilities more efficient and increasing hydropower production will help us meet our greenhouse gas emissions goals and continue to increase the role of renewables in our energy portfolio."
"Local clean energy sources like hydroelectric facilities work to reduce energy costs for ratepayers while helping to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions," added Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. "Through this funding we can support local economies and help communities provide more low-cost renewable energy for their citizens."
MassCEC’s Hydropower Program is funded through Renewable Energy Trust, which was created by the Massachusetts Legislature in 1998. The trust is funded by municipal electric departments that have opted to participate in the program, along with a systems benefit charge paid by electric customers of investor-owned utilities in the state.
To be eligible for MassCEC grants, hydropower facilities must demonstrate that they are "low-impact" with regard to the local environment.