MEDIA ADVISORY
For Immediate Release
March 16, 2015
Contact: Michelle Smith, Communications & Marketing Manager
msmith@maineaudubon.org
(207) 781-2330 x209
Mobile: (207) 838-0511
Senator Angus King to Unveil New Solar Panels at Maine Audubon
WHAT: Senator Angus King will help Maine Audubon formally unveil its new solar panel installation on the first day of spring (March 20) at its headquarters, Gilsland Farm Audubon Center in Falmouth. The installation is a result of a unique partnership between Maine Audubon, Revision Energy and Moody’s Collision Centers.
Revision Energy installed the 42 kW solar system in early January. Moody’s Collision Centers paid for the equipment and installation of the project. The renewable energy project allows Moody’s to qualify for federal income tax incentives (as a nonprofit, Maine Audubon does not qualify for these credits). As part of the “power purchase agreement” between the two organizations, Maine Audubon will buy electricity from Moody’s for the next six years. At the end of the six year period, Maine Audubon has the option to buy the solar installation. Moody’s will be able to recoup its costs through the electricity payments, federal tax credits and repayment cost of the system.
“Climate change poses a major threat to the health and long-term sustainability of our ecosystems and wildlife, and no group understands that harsh reality better than Maine Audubon,” said Senator King. “With this collaborative renewable energy project, Maine Audubon, Moody Collision Centers, and ReVision are stepping up to lead in the important fight to preserve our environment for generations to come.”
The solar installation will produce an average of 74,000 kWh of electricity each year, providing close to 80% of the organization’s electricity. The project is the largest array of solar panels installed by a conservation organization in the state.
WHO: Senator Angus King (I-ME)
Phil Coupe, Owner of Revision Energy
Shawn Moody, Owner of Moody’ Collison Centers
Charles Gauvin, Executive Director of Maine Audubon
WHEN: Friday, March 20, 10:00 am
WHERE: Gilsland Farm Audubon Center, 20 Gilsland Farm Road, Falmouth
WHY: Climate change is the number one threat to wildlife and habitat in Maine. As the state’s largest wildlife conservation organization, Maine Audubon is taking action to reduce carbon emissions. The unique partnership with Revision Energy and Moody’s Collision Centers also demonstrates the innovative approaches nonprofits can take to incorporate renewable energy into their operations.
HOW: The press conference will take place in the Environmental Center at Gilsland Farm. Following the conference, there will be an opportunity to take photos of Senator King and speakers in front of the solar panels (weather dependent).
Light refreshments will be served.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS:
The solar installation consists of six solar trackers (for a total of 144 panels) and a rooftop array (composed of 24 panels) on the Environmental Center. The solar installation is connected to the electricity grid and will feed back energy when more electricity is produced than the facility is able to use. Maine Audubon will receive credit for excess generation.
The six solar trackers (manufactured by AllSun of Vermont) use GPS technology to move throughout the course of the day and year to follow the sun, which provides up to 40% more electricity than a fixed array system. The first six years of operation are expected to offset 222 tons of carbon emissions, which is equivalent to 238,453 pounds of coal burned.
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About Maine Audubon
Maine Audubon’s science-based approach to conservation, education and advocacy advances wildlife and wildlife habitat conservation in Maine. Our citizen science programs connect Maine people to engaging volunteer opportunities that make meaningful contributions to conservation research. The largest Maine-based wildlife conservation organization, Maine Audubon has eight centers and wildlife sanctuaries and serves over 50,000 people annually, with 15,000 members and 2,000 volunteers.
Conserving Maine’s wildlife.
Please visit www.maineaudubon1.wpengine.com for more information.
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