### Exciting Developments in Renewable Energy
In a groundbreaking move for renewable energy in Lewiston, Citrine Power, LLC is proposing a new solar energy installation at a former landfill site located at 4746 Model City Road. This ambitious project aims to establish a 2.5-megawatt system, taking advantage of the 29.5-acre parcel owned by the Washuta family trust, which is currently zoned for industrial use.
To facilitate this venture, **approximately eight to ten acres are designated for the solar array**, which will sit adjacent to Modern Disposal’s operations and near the Lewiston Town Hall. Detailed site plans from Colliers Engineering & Design illustrate a well-structured layout, including an **8-foot chain link fence** protecting the equipment, and careful considerations for setbacks of 50 to 200 feet from neighboring properties. Moreover, the equipment will be positioned on ballast blocks to avoid disruption to the landfill’s cap.
This initiative forms part of the **Community Solar Power Program**, allowing the generated energy to be channeled to National Grid. Citrine Power boasts experience with **15 solar arrays across five states**, accumulating a total output of **37.32 megawatts**. Recently, the Niagara County Planning Board endorsed the site’s development plans, which are now awaiting final approval from the town after the board’s recent ordinance favoring solar projects in industrial zones.
With at least six solar farms already sanctioned, Lewiston continues to pave the way for sustainable energy solutions.
Unleashing the Power of the Sun: Lewiston’s New Solar Adventure
### Overview of the Solar Energy Project in Lewiston
In an exciting development for sustainable energy, Citrine Power, LLC has unveiled plans for a new solar energy installation at a former landfill site in Lewiston, located at 4746 Model City Road. This project is set to significantly contribute to the area’s renewable energy portfolio, with plans for a **2.5-megawatt solar system** to be constructed on an **approximately eight to ten acre** plot of the 29.5-acre site owned by the Washuta family trust.
### Key Features of the Installation
**Site Layout and Security**: The solar array is designed with safety and functionality in mind. Site plans from Colliers Engineering & Design outline several features such as an **8-foot chain link fence** surrounding the equipment and a carefully planned layout that maintains **setbacks of 50 to 200 feet** from adjacent properties. This thoughtful design ensures that the solar installation operates efficiently while adhering to safety standards.
**Environmental Considerations**: The equipment will be installed on **ballast blocks** to protect the integrity of the landfill’s cap, thereby minimizing any potential environmental disturbances. This approach demonstrates a commitment to not only energy production but also to environmental stewardship.
### Energy Distribution
This solar project is part of the **Community Solar Power Program**, where the energy generated will be supplied to National Grid, fostering local energy independence and sustainability. The initiative underscores the importance of community involvement in renewable energy projects, making solar power accessible to a wider audience.
### Citrine Power’s Credentials
Citrine Power, LLC is not new to the solar scene. With **15 solar arrays across five states** producing a combined output of **37.32 megawatts**, the company has a proven track record in the renewable energy sector, signaling a strong likelihood of success for the Lewiston project. Their expertise positions them as a reliable partner in the push for solar energy in the region.
### Community Support and Future Prospects
The Niagara County Planning Board has recently endorsed Citrine Power’s development plans, moving the project closer to final approval from local authorities. This endorsement is part of a broader trend in Lewiston, where at least six solar farms have already received sanctioning. These ongoing developments highlight Lewiston’s commitment to creating a sustainable energy future, paving the way for potentially more solar projects.
### Pros and Cons of Solar Energy Projects
**Pros**:
– **Renewable Resource**: Solar energy is plentiful and sustainable.
– **Community Benefits**: Projects like these can provide local jobs and reduced energy costs.
– **Environmental Impact**: Reduced carbon footprint compared to fossil fuels.
**Cons**:
– **Initial Costs**: High upfront investment can be a barrier.
– **Intermittent Energy Production**: Solar energy is dependent on sunlight availability.
– **Land Use**: Large installations require substantial land, which can impact local ecosystems.
### Conclusion
The proposed solar energy installation in Lewiston by Citrine Power, LLC, represents a proactive step toward a cleaner and more sustainable future. With continued support from local authorities and the community’s involvement, this project could serve as a model for future renewable energy initiatives across the region.
For more information on renewable energy trends and developments, visit energy.gov.
