Greenskies installs 120-kW rooftop solar system on Connecticut YMCA

Solar Builder | SB Staff
November 10, 2021

Greenskies Clean Energy has completed a 120-kW rooftop solar energy system in Hartford, Connecticut. Composed of about 320 modules on the Wilson-Gray YMCA, the installation will provide reliable savings by lowering the annual electric costs for The Y.

The Wilson-Gray Y is located in the North end of Hartford and shares space with the historic Clay Arsenal and Upper Albany neighborhoods. Underserved areas like these consume over two-thirds of the world’s energy and account for more than 70% of CO2 emissions. Each year, The Y solar system will generate more than 126,000 kWh of clean energy, offsetting approximately 197,000 pounds of CO2, the equivalent of taking around 20 cars off the road each year.

“The realization of this solar project will supply consistent energy to The Y’s seven-day-a-week facility,” said Stanley Chin, President and CEO of Greenskies. “It is a clear demonstration of everyone involved’s commitment to bettering the community and supporting The Y’s mission of developing individuals’ spirit, mind, and body. In addition, this project is an excellent example of how onsite solar electricity generation makes a positive impact on environmental, social, and economic interests.”

“We have been interested for some time in exploring green energy alternatives and are excited to work with Greenskies, Titan Energy, and the Connecticut Green Bank to implement a solar solution which saves us money that can be directed towards serving our community in North Hartford while also reducing our carbon footprint,” said Joe Weist, CFO for the YMCA of Greater Hartford.

Greenskies and Titan Energy worked closely with Connecticut Green Bank to help The Y bring this project to light.

“Titan Energy is proud of the management strategy implemented at the Y facilities of Connecticut to keep electricity supply costs low and predictable over the long term,” said Titan Energy Vice President Chris Ramm. “After Titan Energy conducted a detailed energy analysis of all the Greater Hartford Y locations, the Wilson Gray Y emerged as a great candidate for solar due to the available roof space and the facility’s energy profile. Titan Energy is pleased to have provided additional savings to our long-standing relationship with the Wilson Gray Y through Greenskies Clean Energy’s solar installation.”

Connecticut Green Bank helps increase access to solar and drive green investment throughout the state with tailored financing strategies. “Our building solutions offer ways for Connecticut’s nonprofits to become stronger and more resilient, helping them save money and decrease their environmental impact,” said Mackey Dykes, Vice President of Financing Programs at the Green Bank.