The 2.4 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) system in Sterling, Massachusetts commenced commercial delivery of power in January of 2013, just ten weeks after the project’s ground-breaking. The project beat the odds of holiday schedules and both extreme rain and snow to be completed on an exceptionally tight schedule.  The system was designed and constructed by groSolar on a former hay field, and was built with little disturbance to the soil or environment since the site did not need to be graded.

“The entire permitting and construction process of the Sterling Solar project was handled seamlessly by groSolar. Presented challenges were handled immediately and we appreciated the high quality and professionalism of the project management team,” commended Sean Hamilton, General Manager of Sterling Municipal Light Department.  “Most importantly, this solar system will positively impact the town of Sterling by providing green energy to our community.”

The project was developed by Community Energy and is owned by Canadian Solar Inc. and INDU Solar Holdings - a joint venture between subsidiaries of Duke Energy and of Integrys Energy Services.  The Sterling Solar Project consists of almost 10,000 Canadian Solar modules, spanning 12 acres.

Approximately 3,145,000 kW hours are expected to be generated annually, which is equivalent to powering 400 homes or offsetting over 2,000 tons of carbon. This project not only provides energy that will be fed into the municipal grid for the community’s use, but also helps support the Commonwealth’s environmental goals, as Massachusetts is a national leader in encouraging smarter energy choices.

“groSolar has developed a reputation for completing projects within tight schedules without sacrificing quality, “ said Jamie Resor, CEO of groSolar. ”Our involvement on this project had specific timeframe requirements. Working together with the utility and other partners, groSolar was able to complete the installation on schedule while managing the challenges of holidays, rainstorms, snowstorms, and end of the year shipping limitations.  The cooperation with the town of Sterling, the Municipal Light Department, and the developers and owners of the project helped make this a success.”