Green Needham’s wind feasibility study to evaluate the possibility of generating wind power at the RTS took several steps forward this month while a companion project determined that the site could also support 1 MW (Megawatt) of solar photovoltaic energy generation.
Late in February, the Town received word that the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) had approved the plans the Town had submitted for erection of the Meteorological Tower that will take the wind measurements at the Town’s RTS (Recycling and Transfer Station).
Earlier in February, the Town’s Planning Department presented a proposed zoning by-law allowing the construction of the tower at the RTS to the Planning Board. After review and approval by the Planning Board, the by-law will require approval at the May Town Meeting to allow construction to proceed.
While this work was proceeding, a parallel project has determined that the RTS could also support solar photovoltaic panels. A preliminary site survey was conducted showing that a ground-mounted array of solar PV panels could generate between 1 and 1.5 MW (Megwatts – 1 MW = 1,000 kilowatts) of power.
For more information about these projects and the project teams, see these pages on our wiki:
