In a remarkable turn of events, a former landfill in Fort Edward, New York, has been converted into a thriving community solar project, now supplying clean energy to hundreds of local homes.
This ambitious project is the result of a partnership between Kendall Sustainable Infrastructure, AC Power, and GreenSpark Solar. The collaboration transformed the old landfill site into a 7-megawatt solar farm, spanning 58 acres, according to Solar Industry.
A press release from AC Power reveals that this new solar community site will provide electricity to over 800 households. The landfill, which operated from 1969 to 1991, was once deemed an "environmental burden" by AC Power. However, after the site was capped and its hazardous waste was cleaned up, Fort Edward started seeking proposals from developers in 2019 to repurpose the site.
Project developers and owners highlight that this initiative will not only offer more affordable clean energy to Fort Edward residents but also support New York's ambitious clean energy goals. These goals include installing 3,000 megawatts of clean energy by 2030 and achieving zero-emissions electricity by 2040.
Annika Colston, founder and CEO of AC Power, praised the project, stating, "The Town of Fort Edward's unique vision to transform a former landfill into a community solar project years before the rest of the industry caught up is truly inspiring. This project supports New York State's ambitious clean energy goals and showcases how innovative approaches can turn environmental challenges into sustainable opportunities."
