Regency Centers has completed the installation of the company's first solar energy system at the Shops at Saugus. The 18,740 s/f photovoltaic array, built with 1,064 rooftop panels, will generate an estimated 250kW of renewable energy annually. The zero-emission power source will supply 65% of the power needed by the center's grocer Trader Joe's.
Socore Energy engineered and installed the system. The panels were provided by Trina TSM and the inverter was from Solectria.
The Shops at Saugus, a 97,904 s/f neighborhood center, was selected for Regency's initial solar panel installation based on federal and state incentives, including Mass.' Solar Renewable Energy Credit program.
"This project is a win-win scenario for Regency, Trader Joe's and the environment. The Saugus solar system allows Regency to generate income from an unused portion of the shopping center roof, while meeting a majority of the energy needs for Trader Joe's," said Scott Prigge, senior V.P. of national property operations for Regency Centers.
"The Saugus solar installation serves as a model for Regency to provide other retailers with eco-friendly energy options in other centers," said Chris Widmayer, V.P. of investments with Regency Centers. "That said, Massachusetts is a state where economic incentives allow companies to receive a reasonable financial return on their investment. Without the support of federal and state incentives, this investment would not have become a reality."
Tim Lukes with Edison Energy served as a consultant to assist with the installation of the solar panel installation.
Regency's sustainability program greengenuity utilizes best practices in green building design, construction, operations and maintenance to reduce long-term operating costs and environmental impact of shopping centers. Current initiatives include smart irrigation, networked lighting, LED parking lot lights and innovative stormwater management systems.