Plans are underway for the development of a $25 Million Baltimore city community solar project, which will serve as a power source for both the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) and the Baltimore city residents.
The facility will be built through a partnership between UMMS and WeSolar, the nation’s first community solar provider headed by a Black Woman CEO and facilitating over 100MW in customer acquisition contracts throughout the NE.
As a development partner, UMMS will pay a foundational commitment of US$ 10,000 per month for up to 18 months to help with the construction of the Baltimore city community solar at a location to be determined in Baltimore City.
The community based solar farm model
Reportedly, most underserved consumers across the U.S.A pay significantly more for energy than do middle-to-upper-class households. For reasons like these, WeSolar is focused on community solar which is typically more accessible than the standard rooftop solar.
Rather than purchasing panels for rooftop installation, community solar customers have the option to purchase or lease panels that are installed on a nearby farm. The panels then transmit energy back into the grid, which powers individual homes.
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Customers who take advantage of the service receive a credit each billing cycle. This approach is extremely beneficial for customers who desire renewable energy, but face accessibility issues, particularly those who rent or live in homes that do not support the technology.
Expectations for the Baltimore city community solar project
The Baltimore city community solar project, which is projected to generate eight megawatts of energy, is expected to become operational within a period of two years.
UMMS has committed to purchasing up to 50% (four megawatts) of the facility’s capacity. UMMS team members who earn less than US$ 67,000 will also be able to acquire solar energy at their residences from the Baltimore Gas & Electric grid at a discount of up to 25%.
