Eleven local governments joined in the collaboration will achieve $22.5 million in collective savings during the 25-year contract
As part of the continued effort to increase the use of “green” energy and reduce the costs of operations the County is seeking to enter into a contract with Monolith Solar for remote net metering energy services. [private]Under the contract the County, 8 municipalities, one authority and one local fire district currently participating will purchase electricity generated from solar arrays constructed in Rensselaer County. Savings from the program are expected to create nearly $22.5 million in collective savings during the 25 year contract.
“This is an outstanding opportunity to help reduce our costs of operation saving taxpayer dollars while supporting a local company that is creating jobs and economic vitality. I want to commend all of our partners in this endeavor and all of our other shared services initiatives as we work to reduce the overall cost of government,” said Rensselaer County Executive Kathleen M. Jimino.
“Rensselaer County works every day to protect taxpayers and ensure needed services are delivered efficiently and effectively. This new initiative with Monolith will allow the county and participating municipalities and organizations to purchase needed electrical power at a significantly cheaper rate,” said Chair of the Legislature Stan Brownell.
“In recent years, the County has created a savings through energy performance contracts, shared service agreements and more modern technology and equipment. The focus on green energy has reduced costs and also made the operation of county government more environmentally-efficient,” added Vice Chair of the Legislature for Finance Phil Danaher.
“The ERCSWMA communities are pleased to be demonstrating their commitment to the environment through this solar project” said Matt Curley, the Authority’s Executive Director. “We’re not just about managing recyclables and trash. We are very concerned about all environmental issues here in Rensselaer County and beyond.”
Monolith Solar was selected from four companies submitting proposals as part of a competitive process undertaken by the County last summer and fall after this concept was brought forward by the Eastern Rensselaer County Solid Waste Management Authority. As part of selection process the County was seeking proposals to allow for the County and all of its municipalities and political subdivisions to pursue solar energy opportunities. After an extensive evaluation process Monolith was selected and contract negotiations were initiated. Those currently partnering with the County on this collaborative cost savings energy project include: Eastern Rensselaer County Solid Waste Management Authority, Town of North Greenbush, Town of Pittstown, Town of Schagticoke, Town of Stephentown, Village of Castleton, Village of Hoosick Falls, Village of Nassau, Village of Valley Falls, and Johnsonville Fire District. Other municipalities may still join the initiative.
In concluding her remarks Jimino stated, “By partnering with other municipalities we were able to combine our purchasing power so that we could all receive a better energy rate helping to create even greater savings for our collective taxpayers.”[/private]