Solect Energy, a full-service commercial-scale solar company in Massachusetts, is expanding its business into the state of Rhode Island.
Solect says it has operated as a solar developer, installer and services provider in Massachusetts since 2009 and has completed a number of projects in Rhode Island to date. The company will maintain its presence in Massachusetts while pursuing new projects in the Ocean State as a licensed Rhode Island solar provider.
“We are optimistic and excited about the opportunities for Solect to expand our footprint as Rhode Island expands its commitment to solar energy,” says Craig Huntley, chief development officer and co-founder of Solect Energy. “The state has made major strides in its solar policies in the past year, and the market is poised for growth. We are eager to play a part in establishing a significant solar presence in the state, while helping businesses, municipalities and non-profit organizations reduce electricity costs with solar energy”
According to Solect, this announcement comes after Rhode Island renewed state renewable energy initiatives, including incentives for solar installations, anticipated to take effect in April. Currently, Rhode Island offers businesses, municipalities, public entities and non-profits two solar incentive programs: the Renewable Energy Growth (REG) program and the Renewable Energy Fund (REF). The National-Grid-sponsored REG program is a 20-year feed-in tariff program designed to compensate solar producers at a fixed rate over the life of the system, while the state-sponsored REF helps qualified solar array owners partially finance their system through grants. Both the REG and REF have been extended through 2022. Solect says Rhode Island stands in contrast to Massachusetts, which has been unable to come to terms on renewing key solar incentive programs.
“We’re ready to seize these new opportunities in the Ocean State,” comments Joseph Fraioli, who was recently hired by Solect as the business development director for Rhode Island.
Photo: A solar installation in Rhode Island recently completed by Solect Energy.
