Solar Energy

The Town of Chelmsford encourages individuals, businesses, and institutions to install solar energy systems.  Renewable energy, coupled with efforts to make our buildings more energy efficient, can save money and make our community more resilient to energy price spikes.  That’s why the Town has already installed almost 2.5 MW of solar energy on its eight schools and Public Works Department building.  For more on the Town’s overall investment in energy conservation and renewable energy go to: http://www.townofchelmsford.us/199/Energy-Conservation

The Town has pulled together information from many sources to help you learn about solar energy, decide if it’s right for you, and then move through the permitting and installation process.  If there are pieces we’ve left out, please let us know at cillsley@townofchelmsford.us

Here’s what you will find:

Part 1: Residential and Commercial Solar Fundamentals

1. Solar Basics
2. The Solar Transaction
3. Free Web Tools To Generate an Estimate
4. Getting Bids, Selecting an Installer
5. Consumer Protections
6. The Contract
7. Uncertainty and the Price of Electricity

Part 2: Installing Solar Systems in Chelmsford: Zoning and Permits

1. Chelmsford’s zoning allows solar everywhere
2. Solar systems require building and electrical permits 
3. Solar systems must be inspected and approved
4. National Grid needs to make the final connection

Part 3: Chelmsford Solar

• Municipal Owned Solar Arrays
• Power Purchase Agreement with Syncarpha Bolton LLC Solar Field
• Chelmsford Community Shared Solar