Innovation District Solar Challenge

Goal: Install 1 MW of Solar PV in the Innovation District by 2013

In June 2011, Mayor Thomas M. Menino announced the Renew-Boston Solar- Innovation District Solar Challenge, an effort to drive private-sector adoption of solar PV technologies in the Innovation District. The goal of the challenge is for businesses and institutions within the Innovation District to install more than 1 Megawatt of Solar PV over the next two years, producing enough clean energy to power 250 homes.

The Innovation District Challenge is part of the Mayor’s comprehensive effort to promote solar technology in Boston. In 2008 the Mayor, launching Renew Boston Solar, a Solar America initiative, set the aggressive goal of siting 25 MW of solar PV within Boston by 2015. Renew Boston Solar has already implemented a number of municipal solar policy best practices, including reforming solar permit fees, streamlining the permitting process, and workforce development trainings. The City has also installed more than 400 kW of solar on municipal properties.

Prices for Solar PV installations have dropped significantly over the past few years, falling 17% in 2010 alone. Combined with aggressive state and federal incentives, solar projects can pay for themselves in 5 years or less. There has never been a better time to take advantage of cost-effective solar energy for your business.

Take Action

If you are a business or institution located in the Innovation District, you are eligible to participate in the challenge. To request a free solar assessment, fill out and submit the form below. You can also find the contact information for the approved solar installers here.