Norwood, MA Gaston Electrical Co., Inc., an electrical contracting company serving the commercial, institutional, and retail markets in New England, has partnered with Solect Energy, one of the state’s leading installers of solar energy for businesses, to install a 175.8 kilowatt (kW) rooftop solar system, consisting of 676 panels, at the company headquarters. The installation will advance Gaston’s ongoing initiative to increase its sustainable practices and make a positive environmental impact in the area.

“As a prominent electrical contractor working on some of the largest development projects in the Boston area, we understand the importance of clean energy for the environment, and for tenants and property owners seeking to occupy or operate more efficient buildings,” said Bill Weber, Jr., principal at Gaston Electrical. “Our headquarters in Norwood features a large flat roof, which presented an untapped resource and perfect opportunity for a solar system.”

Since completion of the installation in March, Gaston has already produced more than 92,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of solar energy on its 22,000 s/f roof, helping to eliminate 55 tons of carbon dioxide emissions from the atmosphere. The company expects to see significant savings on electricity costs in its first year of production.

“It was a pleasure working with Gaston Electrical to position the company as a leader in solar adoption in the region,” said Brian Herr, vice president of sales at Solect. “Not only is the system a cost-effective choice for Gaston, it represents a big step forward toward their goal of being one of the greenest companies in the area.”

Many of Gaston’s projects are within energy efficient and LEED-certified buildings. This exposure was a significant factor in the company’s decision to develop its own green program. Prior to installing solar, Gaston implemented other environmental initiatives including motion-activated lighting throughout its headquarters, and similar efficiency systems designed to conserve resources.

Recently, Solect Energy was named number 92 out of 500 solar companies in the nation and the number one commercial-scale contractor in Massachusetts by Solar Power World.