Boston-based solar developer BlueWave has announced the launch of five pioneering agrivoltaic projects across Massachusetts. Located in the communities of Palmer, Haverhill, Dighton, and Douglas, these sites represent a significant step forward in integrating agriculture with clean energy production. The portfolio will add 19.8 MWdc of solar generation and 29.7 MWh of battery storage to the state’s grid, all developed under the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program.
Central to these projects is an innovative dual-use design that ensures farming remains the primary activity on the land. The solar arrays are installed at a height of at least ten feet, allowing ample space for agricultural equipment to operate underneath. This thoughtful engineering supports a variety of farming activities, from growing diverse crops to implementing pollinator-friendly livestock grazing operations, thereby preserving Massachusetts’ valuable farmland.
Nathan L’Etoile of the American Farmland Trust (AFT) praised the approach, stating, “Agrivoltaics provides a pathway for a clean, just energy transition, providing renewable energy in a way that uplifts agricultural operations, creates new opportunities for farmers, and enhances the resilience of rural communities.”
A key component of this initiative is a community-focused partnership with Lowell General Hospital, which serves as the anchor customer for the sites in Palmer and Haverhill. The hospital will receive 50% of the projects’ energy capacity through community solar bill credits, which helps offset its operational costs and advance its sustainability goals. This anchor tenancy is crucial for the financial viability of the projects, enabling expanded access to clean energy for low-income residents who can subscribe and receive credits on their utility bills.
Kevin Foley, Director of Plant Operations and Property at Lowell General Hospital, remarked on the collaboration, saying, “As the anchor customer of a community solar project in partnership with BlueWave, we’re able to support our community while lowering costs by utilizing the latest in state-of-the-art renewable solar energy technology.”
The five projects are projected to reduce annual carbon emissions by approximately 13,000 tons, contributing directly to Massachusetts’ goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. BlueWave CEO and Co-Founder Trevor Hardy emphasized the company’s commitment to its home state. “As a Boston-based company and certified B Corp, serving our surrounding communities is in our DNA,” he said. “The amount of energy that is being generated by these projects is meaningful, ensuring greater access to community solar projects and farmers’ continued success with their land.”
Expected to be fully operational by the end of 2024, this portfolio is part of BlueWave’s larger development pipeline, which includes nearly 500 MWdc of clean energy systems in development across 11 states.
Sources
- [PDF] 2024 Impact Report
- Killer Combo: Agrivoltaics And Community Solar Beat Fossil Fuels
- BlueWave Unveils 19.8 MW Agrivoltaic Projects in Massachusetts
- Expanding Agrivoltaics in Massachusetts – AgriSolar Clearinghouse
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