Project of the Month: Good Will-Hinckley celebrates opening of Maine’s first fully solar powered, net-positive academic facility

Charles E. Moody School - Hinckley, ME

Hinckley, ME The historic Good Will-Hinckley campus recently celebrated the opening of Maine’s first fully solar powered, net-positive academic facility, the Charles E. Moody School. Designed by Harriman and built by Landry/French Construction. The renovations and additions to the 110-year-old building created a high energy efficient and sustainable environment while at the same time retaining it’s character and defining features.

The 267 photovoltaic panels were installed by ReVision Energy of Liberty, Maine with an expected delivery of 91,000 kWh of power. The Moody School will use approximately 77,000 kWh annually, leaving a “net positive” of 14,000 kWh of clean, renewable power. This will offset the energy needs of adjacent greenhouses and other facilities on campus. The energy cost savings is estimated at $1.3 million over 25 years.

Efficiency Maine, a statewide program to promote more efficient use of electricity and reduce energy costs,awarded nearly $30,000 in incentives to install the energy-efficient HVAC system and LED lighting. The energy usage level is approximately 30% less than a conventional building.

Marvin’s aluminum-clad windows were a perfect fit for this project due to their craftsman-quality construction, energy-efficient technology, and the industry’s most extensive selection of shapes, styles, sizes, and colors. The knowledgeable experts at Marvin Design Gallery by Eldredge Lumber have decades of experience in projects ranging from historic renovation to new construction and were excited to assist in this project from start to finish.

The level of excitement from students has been fun to see.” said interim president Rob Moody. “Our students are now in the unique position of learning about natural sciences and renewable energy while sitting in classrooms powered by the sun.”

The Moody School is a contributing structure to the Hinckley Good Will Home Historic District. Today the building houses the Maine Academy of Natural Sciences (MeANS), the state’s first charter school. The expansion added 7,200 s/f to the existing 16,150 s/f building. The project will allow MeANS to expand its current enrollment from 125 to 200 students. The state-of-the-art features support the school’s focus on science, sustainability education and hands-on learning.

Landry/French Construction Company offers full commercial construction services from pre-construction through project completion. Located in Scarborough,ME.

Harriman Architecture and engineering firm offers services for education, healthcare, corporate, retail and government clients, with offices in Auburn and Portland, Maine.

The project team included: • Harriman Associates: Architect • Landry/French Construction Company: General Contractor • Marvin Design Gallery by Eldredge Lumber: Windows • Ranor, Inc.: Plumbing / HVAC • Ideal Electric: Electrical