Pembroke, NH The largest retailer-owned, wholesale grocery distribution center in New England is now home to one of New Hampshire’s largest rooftop solar arrays. On September 29^th, Associated Grocers of New England (AGNE) cut the ribbon on a new 1,292-kilowatt DC (1000 kW AC) solar array at its centralized distribution facility, followed by rooftop tours of the recently-completed installation.

The array was designed and completed by Brentwood-based ReVision Energy, an employee-owned solar company that works with businesses, nonprofits, municipalities, and families to accelerate the clean energy transition. The 3,400 solar panels are expected to generate more than 1,450,000 kilowatt-hours of clean energy every year, offsetting 2.2 million pounds of CO2 emissions – equivalent to planting 17,000 trees or removing 224 cars from the road each year. The array adds approximately 1% to N.H.’s total solar capacity statewide. AGNE, which is celebrating their 75th anniversary this year, is committed to their sustainability journey.

“Supporting the communities we serve has always been an integral part of who we are and that includes operating in an environmentally conscientious way,” said AGNE President & CEO, Mike Violette. “Just about a year ago, former Board Member, Tom Bradbury, inspired us to establish a committee of bright associates to focus their passion for sustainability on making green awareness initiatives a priority. I don’t think any of us anticipated that the group’s first venture would be one of this magnitude, but we couldn’t be prouder of all that they’ve accomplished thus far. We are thrilled to partner with ReVision Energy on our solar journey, as well as continue to explore additional eco-friendly developments within our organization.” The committee coined itself Associated Grocers Green Awareness, or AGGA, and has focused on a variety of initiatives. Rooftop solar was by far the most ambitious, but also most rewarding.

“It has been an honor to be part of the AGGA committee and make this great initiative a possibility here at AG,” said Marketing Media Specialist, Tommy Coyle, a member of AGGA. “The entire process was a great learning experience for our team, and there was such a sense of pride when we found out this record-setting solar project was approved. From the original meeting with the ReVision staff, we could tell the potential for a great partnership was there, and that feeling never wavered as we continued on with our decision making. The fact that two New England cooperatives could team up for this amazing project is just a bonus for both sides, and we are excited to see what the future holds.”

“Although New Hampshire lags behind the region in solar deployment, AGNE is setting a powerful example for businesses and the state of how homegrown clean energy can cut costs, add jobs, and help the environment,” said ReVision Energy’s Vice President of Business Development, Dan Weeks. “As a fellow cooperative, our 300 employee-owners and I, along with out many partners and subcontractors, were honored to partner with AGNE on this landmark project.”