Westwood Public Schools (WPS) will soon recognize the benefits of several alternative energy projects and a grant from the federal government.
With the end of the school year, construction of a large solar canopy project is beginning at the Westwood High School (WHS) student parking lot. The project is expected to wrap up and be operational before school resumes in the fall. The solar array is expected to generate almost $30,000 in power savings during its first year and ultimately save $45,000 per year in power costs by 2045. Over the 20 year operational period, the total savings are expected to be $715,946year operational. The canopy will include features such as an ice melt and drainage system that directs water underground; LED lighting under the canopies; security cameras; and bicycle parking.
“There are some additional benefits that will also result from this project,” said Westwood Energy Manager Thomas Philbin. “The canopies will replace the need for tents on Westwood Day. The need for snow plowing in winter will be greatly decreased and parked cars will be protected from sun and rain”
According to Philbin, this project has taken almost eight years to bring to fruition. It is an integral part of the Town’s efforts to have renewable energy account for over 80% of the Town’s power consumption.
Two Level 2 Electric Vehicle charging stations with four charging ports will be installed in the faculty/public portion of the WHS parking lot. These charging ports are being installed during the same construction period as the solar canopies to facilitate electrical work on the site. The stations are funded by grants from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Eversource, with some lesser funding from the Town. They will be available to the public as well as school staff. Also, they will make possible future acquisitions of electric vehicles by WHS.
“We are proud to play our part in reducing the carbon footprint of the town,” said Superintendent of Schools Timothy Piwowar. “We are at a critical juncture in terms of protecting our environment. The school department is constantly looking for ways we can contribute positively to conservation efforts.”
Westwood has also received a $5 million incentive grant from the Internal Revenue Service to help offset the costs of Pine Hills’ 60 geothermal wells, which circulate water from below the earth’s surface to run the heating/air conditioning system. Pine Hill also achieved Gold status from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
“The Pine Hill School incorporates sustainability in almost every aspect of its design,” said Philbin. “It was an intentional process to help offset cost and to help the town reach our efficiency goals.” Philbin further noted that Pine Hill is among the most efficient schools in the state. “These efforts demonstrate the Town’s commitment to energy efficiency and projects that reduce costs,” said Philbin. “Westwood hopes to be both a leader in the state and a model for others in the efforts to minimize climate change effects.”
