Washington Gas Energy Systems to Build 803-kW Solar Array

“This project will provide clean, renewable energy to Mace’s Lane Middle School for the next twenty years as a result of this investment by Washington Gas Energy Systems and their partner Kenyon Energy,” said Dr. Henry V. Wagner, Jr., Superintendent of Dorchester County Public Schools. “This solar array, which required no upfront financial outlay from the County, will also serve as an educational vehicle encouraging environmental sustainability awareness in our classrooms.”

Washington Gas Energy Systems will own and operate the array under a 20-year power purchasing agreement and Kenyon Energy will install the system. Dorchester County Public Schools provided the property on which the system is located, with expected project completion by the end of 2012. The Mace’s Lane Middle School solar array will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions equal to planting more than 35,000 pine trees or avoiding the use of 1,780,000 gallons of gasoline over 20 years.

“We commend the Dorchester County Public School System and their leadership for their environmental stewardship and are pleased to partner with them and Kenyon Energy on this project,” said Sanjiv Mahan, Vice President of Business Development for Washington Gas Energy Systems. “Investing in the development of renewable energy generation assets is a high priority for Washington Gas Energy Systems, as is the opportunity to invest in our future through the education of students on sustainable energy alternatives.”

Throughout 2012, Washington Gas Energy Systems has supported the development of solar generation projects in partnership with public school administrations in Dorchester, Caroline and Kent Counties. As of August 2012, more than 25,500 (kW) of solar capacity is operating or under contract through Washington Gas Energy Systems and WGL Holdings, Inc. subsidiaries. Over the last three years, WGL Holdings, Inc. has invested more than $92 million into the development of solar generation nation-wide.

“As part of our on-going commitment to help Maryland achieve its renewable energy goals, we look forward to working with Dorchester County Public Schools and Washington Gas Energy Systems throughout the development of this significant solar system to help power Mace’s Lane Middle School,” said Michael Dykstra, Kenyon Energy Senior Vice President.