2009-Annual Town Report - Laserfiche WebLink

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Report of the Energy Committee To the Honorable Board of Selectmen and Citizens of the Town of Mashpee This has been an important year for the Energy Committee. In 2009, Mashpee has seen our work on energy programs and plans begin to come to fruition. With the help of the Cape Light Compact, we have been able to begin the process of implementing significant efficiency measures identified in several 2008 energy audits. Following the common energy mantra of "efficient first" Mash ee has set our sights hts on lowerin our energy use as much as possible. Y p g g gY p I Early results have shown that at the DPW building alone we have been able to approach a 50% reduction in electrical usage due to efficiency measures. Other important efficiency measures have been installed at the High School and Town Hall. Also in 2009, all 3 schools have been I recognized by the EPA as "Energy Star Rated Buildings". These ratings suggest that they are of the most energy efficient buildings in their class in the Country. All of this efficiency work is being done while laying the groundwork for significant renewable energy projects. In 2009, Mashpee has been able to secure funding for 3 renewable energy projects. First, the Town, using money from the Clean Energy Choice program, has contracted for the installation of two 30 foot vertical axis wind turbines at Heritage Park. Additionally, the Town has secured a letter of intent from the Cape and Vineyard Electric Cooperative for funding to install a 262kw solar project at the High School. When installed, this will be the largest solar project on Cape Cod and one of the largest in the State. The third project ready to go in 2010 is a minimum 80kw solar project to be installed across both the Senior Center and Town Hall. In addition to these pending projects, the Town is well situated in the long term for two large scale renewable energy projects. The wind turbine feasibility study is nearing completion and will be delivered early in 2010 and preliminary discussions for a "solar farm" at the Town's closed landfill have begun. Both of these projects, while longer term in nature, would be significant energy producers (likely 1-2MW each) and would position Mashpee as a State-wide leader with regard to energy related issues. All of this progress, coupled with the passage of three vital Town Meeting articles in 2009 (As of right siting of solar projects and renewable energy manufacturing, expedited permitting for these uses and a mandate to purchase fuel efficient vehicles as per the Green Community Program's guidelines) are the basis for the Town's anticipated application to the State for recognition as a Green Community. This recognition will help fund efficiency and renewable energy projects in the future years. Thanks again to our volunteers on this committee, John Brazier and Tom O'Hara for all of their time and energy. Committee Mission To responsibly research and implement renewable energy projects while continuing to improve energy efficiency across all aspects of Mashpee government. Major Activities of 2009 I • Continued implementation of efficiency measures as outlined in the Energy Audits of t 2007 and 2008 • Continued maintaining a detailed accounting of municipal energy usage information • Organized a formal approach to public outreach concerning energy efficiency programs { • Joined the Cape and Vineyard Electric Cooperative • Funded and contracted for the 2010 implementation of two 30' vertical axis wind turbines at Heritage Park 117