Connecticut Approves 1.2-Megawatt Solar Farm in Manchester

A new solar energy facility is coming to Manchester, Connecticut, bringing clean power to the community after winning unanimous approval from state officials.

The Connecticut Siting Council voted 7-0 to approve Greenskies Clean Energy's plan to build a 1.2-megawatt solar facility on nearly 30 acres of mostly vacant land along Lake Street. The North Haven-based company will install over 2,100 solar panels across two connected sites that together will power hundreds of homes.

The project faced some pushback from neighbors worried about visibility and water runoff, but Greenskies worked with the community to address concerns. The company agreed to add landscaping to screen the panels from view and implement advanced stormwater management practices to protect local water quality.

State officials determined the facility meets all air and water quality standards and won't cause substantial environmental harm. The solar arrays will be monitored remotely around the clock and comply with building, electrical, and fire safety codes.

The Ripple Effect

This project represents more than just clean energy for one Connecticut town. It shows how renewable energy developers can work with communities to address concerns while still moving forward with needed infrastructure.

The council required Greenskies to conduct a post-construction noise study to ensure the facility stays within acceptable limits, even though the landowner wasn't worried. Officials also made sure the company would coordinate with Manchester's fire department so emergency responders can easily access the site if needed.

While one council member noted his preference would have been to keep the farmland in agricultural production, he acknowledged the minimal impact to neighbors and the environment made the project worthwhile.

The facility will provide renewable energy to Connecticut's grid while helping the state meet its clean energy goals. Construction can begin once the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection issues the required stormwater permit.

Manchester is joining communities across Connecticut in embracing solar power as a path toward a cleaner energy future.