Belfast Solar I is designed as a 3.5 MW AC community solar project spanning 13.10 acres of a larger, 52.18-acre site, and consists of three fixed-tilt, ground-mounted solar arrays. The project will feed directly into Central Maine Power’s (CMP) three-phase distribution circuit, delivering solar energy to CMP customers across the region as part of Maine’s Net Energy Billing (NEB) Program.
With a projected lifespan of 20 to 25 years, Belfast Solar I is set to generate clean energy for the long term, helping hundreds of Maine residents to lower their electricity costs while reducing their carbon footprint.The project is expected to reach its “Permission to Operate” (PTO) date in October 2024, marking the official start of its operation. In its first year, Belfast Solar I is projected to generate 4,612,300.00 kWh annually, equivalent to preventing the emission of over 3,600 metric tons of CO2, making it a major win for both local residents and the environment.
The construction of Belfast Solar I includes state-of-the-art infrastructure, including:
- Pole-mounted photovoltaic systems
- Underground and overhead electrical conduits
- Fencing and security signage
- A gravel access road for maintenance vehicles
The solar panels will be mounted on frames secured with either push piles or helical augers, depending on soil conditions. The panels will be divided into three zones—west, central, and east—each connected to a transformer before joining the main electrical circuit along Lower Congress Street. While most of the electrical lines will be buried in underground PVC conduit, a small portion will be mounted on wooden utility poles.
The site is designed to minimize its environmental footprint. All development has been planned to avoid field-delineated wetlands, vernal pools, and soils identified during surveys in 2020. Additionally, the project site is outside FEMA-designated floodplains and Shoreland Zone Subdistricts.
Once fully operational, the Belfast Solar I project will provide CMP customers with clean energy at a 15% discount on the solar energy produced for them, without the need for expensive rooftop solar panels.
Security & Environmental Protection
Security is a priority for the Belfast Solar I project. The facility will be enclosed by a seven-foot-high chain-link fence, with a locked gate providing restricted access to the site. Thoughtful design ensures that the fence allows small animals to pass through while preventing unauthorized access.
Syncarpha has worked closely with environmental experts to ensure the project complies with Maine’s Stormwater Management Chapter 500 requirements, which mitigate surface drainage impacts post-construction.
Once fully operational, the Belfast Solar I project will provide CMP customers with clean energy at a 15% discount on the solar energy produced for them, without the need for expensive rooftop solar panels.
Opportunities for Maine Residents
Maine Residents connected with CMP will have the unique opportunity to purchase the solar energy directly from Syncarpha through this community solar project. By subscribing to Belfast Solar I at no upfront cost, participants will receive solar credits directly on their electricity bills (reducing what they pay to CMP) and enjoy a guaranteed 15% discount on the same solar credits produced for them. This allows participants to support renewable energy, help reduce their community’s carbon footprint, and save on electricity costs—all without installing solar panels on their property.
The Belfast Solar I project is another step forward in Syncarpha’s mission to remove the roadblocks to widespread adoption of solar energy. By participating in Maine’s NEB Program, Syncarpha aims to make clean energy more accessible, affordable, and beneficial to the community.
Central Maine Power customers are encouraged to contribute to Maine’s renewable energy future by subscribing to a community solar project with Syncarpha through its subsidiary, Solar Gardens by Syncarpha. With no upfront costs to join, Maine residents can support the growth of local clean energy while saving up to 15% on electricity for the entirety of the solar project.
For more community solar information, visit Syncarpha’s community solar website: https://joinsolargardens.com/, email [email protected], or call (888) 55-SOLAR.
