Lunenburg working on subscription-based solar garden project
LUNENBURG, N.S. — The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) has joined the Alternative Resource Energy Authority (AREA) to explore a potential solar garden project.
AREA will manage the build, but the garden itself — near the Lunenburg Regional Community Recycling Centre on Mullock Road — would be the property of the municipality, with the local community enjoying its potential benefits.
Upon receiving approval, MODL will be able to sell energy to Nova Scotia Power through a power purchase agreement.
Residents within the municipal partnership (along with additional partners soon to be announced) will have the initial opportunity to subscribe — providing “an accessible and inclusive alternative to rooftop solar” — with later availability for residents across Nova Scotia.
The garden is a key feature of the upcoming Provincial Community Solar Program, expected to launch late this year or early 2024. Site selection analysis, geotechnical studies, and preliminary engineering and design assessments are already underway.
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“The future of the municipality shines brighter today as we take a bold step towards sustainable energy,” said Mayor Carolyn Bolivar-Getson.
“This project will not only power our homes but also empower our residents with a renewable energy solution.”
An FAQ on the town’s website notes they chose the garden option over rooftop solar panels because the latter isn’t as accessible for renters and those without the right roof design, and that the opt-in-opt-out subscription service comes without the risks of installing and maintaining a personal system.
