One Year of Solar Power at Meadow Ridge

One year ago, on December 18th, Meadow Ridge, flipped the switch on its long-anticipated solar installation. In its first year of service, the 763-kilowatt project has provided approximately 20% of the community’s electricity and offset more than 585 metric tons of carbon.

Making a Meaningful Impact

“It’s remarkable that one community, like Meadow Ridge, can make such a substantial difference in just one year,” said Meadow Ridge Chief Operating Officer Brett Mehlman. “This solar installation has blended so well into the campus that it largely goes unnoticed, yet every day it is saving electricity and curbing significant carbon emissions.”

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the 585 metric tons of carbon offset by the Meadow Ridge solar installation is equivalent to:

• The annual emissions from a gas-powered vehicle traveling nearly 1.5 million miles
• The annual energy use of 78 single-family homes
• The energy used to charge more than 47 million smartphones

Recognition for Leadership

The solar project was also recognized this year by Connecticut Greenbank, which awarded its President’s Award to resident Susan Auslander and the Meadow Ridge Solar Committee. Ms. Auslander chairs the Solar Committee and has been the community’s strongest advocate for solar power.

“We take great pride in this project,” said Auslander, “especially knowing that we are doing our part to leave a better planet for our grandchildren.”

Innovation on Campus

Residents can monitor the solar panels’ production in real-time on a dashboard in the community’s lobby. In addition to the three solar arrays, Meadow Ridge has installed four electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and implemented energy-efficient lighting upgrades across the campus.