COMBINING THE POWER OF PURPOSE: Food Bank of Western Massachusetts & PV Squared Solar
December 18th, 2024
PV Squared Solar and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts expand renewable energy while addressing food insecurity in Western Massachusetts.
GREENFIELD, MA — PV Squared Solar, a local worker-owned cooperative and leader in renewable-energy solutions, is proud to announce the activation of a cutting-edge solar-panel system at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ new warehouse, resource, education, and advocacy center in Chicopee, Massachusetts. The milestone will be celebrated with a ‘Flip the Switch’ event on Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 9 a.m. at the Food Bank’s new facility, located at 25 Carew St.
Designed to maximize sustainability and energy efficiency, the solar installation includes an advanced rooftop solar array and solar canopy which provide shade and energy production over part of the parking lot. This system will significantly reduce the Food Bank’s carbon footprint while supplying the energy required to support its essential services for the community.
“We are honored to partner with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts on this impactful project,” said Kate Carter, Worker-Owner & member of the Management Team. “As a company rooted in Western Massachusetts, we’re committed to delivering renewable-energy solutions that not only benefit the environment but also strengthen vital community organizations. By installing solar, the Food Bank is reducing their energy costs allowing them to focus even more resources on their mission of feeding those in need. Solar projects like this are good for the planet, and the bottom line.”
Brittany Hathaway, Worker-Owner & Marketing Specialist stated “This project was especially meaningful to us as a worker-owned cooperative. Knowing that our work is helping power another values-driven organization who provides vital resources to those in need makes it one of the most rewarding initiatives we’ve undertaken. Bringing solar energy to the Food Bank is more than just a technical achievement—it’s a way to contribute to their mission of community support and sustainability.”
The project was made possible through a congressionally directed Community Funding Project grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, with the support of U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey.
“This installation reflects what is possible when federal support and local expertise come together. A lot of people contributed to this installation of 1,269 modules totaling 615.465kW DC” added Maya Fulford, Worker-Owner & System Designer “It’s inspiring to see solar energy powering an organization that does so much to uplift our region.”
The celebratory event will feature remarks from Andrew Morehouse, Executive Director of the Food Bank; Jesse Lederman, Regional Director for Sen. Markey’s office; Chicopee Mayor John Vieau; Nancy Robinson, Senior Director of Operations at the Food Bank; and PV Squared Solar representatives.
__________
CONTACTS: