Vermont Public Utility Commission Approves 500 kW Solar Group Net-Metering System

Strategic Insights -

The Vermont Public Utility Commission (PUC) has issued a final order granting a certificate of public good (CPG) to Andover Weston A Solar LLC for the installation and operation of a 500 kW solar group net-metering system in Andover, Vermont. The project will promote the general good of the State of Vermont, according to the PUC's findings.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 500 kW solar group net-metering system will be installed and operated by Andover Weston A Solar LLC in Andover, Vermont.
  • The project will occupy approximately 2.3 acres within an approximately 90-acre parcel in Andover, Vermont.
  • The project will be interconnected with Green Mountain Power Corporation's electric distribution system.
  • The project will include multiple rows of solar panels, string inverters, electrical lines, and a wildlife fence, among other components.
  • The project will be accessed via an existing gravel drive and a discontinued town road off the Weston Andover Road.
  • The project site is subject to Act 250 Permit #2S1046 for the annual extraction and crushing of up to 75,000 cubic yards of materials.
  • The project will comply with Vermont's statutory setback requirements for ground-mounted solar electric generation facilities.
  • The project will not have an adverse effect on system stability and reliability, aesthetics, historic sites, air and water purity, the natural environment, or public health and safety.
  • The project will be decommissioned at the end of its useful life.
  • The PUC has adopted the Applicant's proposal for decision, which includes conditions to be adopted in the CPG.
  • The final order and CPG are explicitly non-precedential with respect to any other companies or projects.

Statistics:

  • 500 kW (AC) solar group net-metering system.
  • 2.3-acre project site within an approximately 90-acre parcel.
  • 10-string inverters, each having a capacity of 50 kW (AC), for an aggregate nameplate capacity of 500 kW (AC).
  • 3,167 kVA pole-mounted transformers on a new GMP distribution pole.
  • 8-foot high wildlife fence with mesh size no smaller than 6" x 6".
  • 7,000 hours of construction, restricted to 7:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, and between 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. on Saturdays.
  • Estimated Project-related sound levels of 20.3 dBA at the nearest residence.

Sources:

  • Public Utility Commission of the State of Vermont, "STATE OF VERMONT PUBLIC UTILITY COMMISSION Case No. 21-3095-NMP Petition of Andover Weston A Solar LLC for a certificate of public good..."
  • Vermont Public Utility Commission, "FINAL ORDER GRANTING NET-METERING CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC GOOD"