NORWICH – In an effort to identify ways to save money and reduce energy expenses, the City of Norwich plans to look into using solar energy to power some municipal outlets.
Mayor Joseph Maiurano told members of the Public Safety/Public Works Committee he had been investigating the possibility of harnessing solar energy for use in the city. In a phone interview Tuesday, the mayor explained that companies from around the area would soon be presenting a feasibility study explaining what can be done in the way of solar power in Norwich.
“It’s pretty palatable to look at,” Maiurano said. In the past, the mayor explained, there were obstacles that kept the city from thoroughly exploring the option of solar power. One of the most evident was the cost and the length of time it would take before the city reached the pay back point. However, currently more incentives exist to give small municipalities a hand in exploring alternative energy solutions.
“With all of the alternative energy grants available, we could reach the pay back point in two to three years,” the mayor said. “Before it would have taken us 10 to 15 years to reach that point.”
The city will investigate using solar power at several locations, including the fire house, city hall and the police department, as well as to power the small street light fixtures in the downtown area. “Really any place that we think we could save money,” Maiurano said. For some buildings, such as the firehouse that already has hot water and electric heat on all three floors, the mayor said using solar power should be an easy adjustment. “It’s a great opportunity for the fire house,” he said.
The participating companies will present their feasibility studies on June 3. If the city decides to move forward with the plan, Maiurano explained they would try to go after as many grants as possible to fund the project.
“If we can get a two to three year break-even point, that would be big savings,” Maiurano said.