Massachusetts-based solar company Nexamp Inc. has announced its first community solar project in Maryland.
The Kent Island solar project, located off Woods Road in Chester, will serve residents throughout the Delmarva Power utility territory. Construction of the 2 MW solar array is set to begin in October, with full commercial operations expected in spring 2019.
Once complete, the community solar project, featuring 7,371 panels, will produce 4.16 million kWh per year. Nexamp, which is developing the project, will also own and operate the facility.
With no signup costs, no annual contracts and no credit checks, Nexamp’s community solar subscription model allows customers to subscribe to a portion of the energy generated by the project. Once the solar array starts producing electricity, Delmarva customers will receive a credit on their bill for their subscribed share of the energy production. Nexamp notes that the project has limited space for subscribers, so interested residents should sign up now to reserve a portion of the output. More than 300 subscribers in the Delmarva Power utility territory will be eligible to receive a 10% discount on their monthly utility bill, according to Nexamp.
“We’re excited to bring our unique community solar program to the Eastern Shore, tapping into the state’s enthusiasm for renewable power and energy savings,” says Zaid Ashai, CEO of Nexamp. “We look forward to working with local and state officials in Maryland to expand access to solar across the state.”
A portion of the project is reserved for local nonprofits. One of Nexamp’s first subscribers is the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art at Salisbury University, which is also helping to make the electricity savings opportunity available to its members and visitors.
“The Ward Museum is pleased to partner with the Nexamp community solar farm, as the services offered are cost-efficient for our nonprofit institution and align with environmental stewardship efforts at the museum,” comments Lora Bottinelli, executive director of the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art at Salisbury University. “The Ward Museum is a Certified Green Center and a partner with Salisbury University and its environmental sustainability efforts on and off the university campus. Partnerships like this with Nexamp bring sustainable solutions to museum members and visitors while financially benefiting our organization.”
The Kent Island project is part of a three-year community solar pilot program launched by the Maryland Public Service Commission.
