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To the Editor:
For several weeks, there’s been a lot of engaging discourse on the proposed solar panels that would be erected at the Fairfield train station, which will provide almost all the electricity consumed by Tomlinson Middle School.
We appreciate the questions and issues put forth by individuals who live near the station, and I believe this project offers a strong environmental vision for our town and makes a strong statement about our commitment to our earth.
It’s an interesting juxtaposition that the Board of Selectman’s vote on these solar panels comes as world leaders descend in Paris for the Sustainable Innovation Forum.
As stewards of our community, we have a unique opportunity to be innovators and visionaries when it comes to integrating independent sources of energy to our town buildings.
The solar panels would be built at the train station’s parking lot and provide Tomlinson Middle School with solar energy, and give the school predictable energy costs.
The solar project offers threefold benefits to our town. First, it would save our town money – about $2 million in energy costs – without any investment from the town. Municipalities like Fairfield have a responsibility to find new ways to save money and reduce our carbon footprint.
Secondly, the system will be visible to thousands of individuals per day to serve as a striking symbol of Fairfield’s clean energy leadership. The project is an opportunity for Fairfield to be the driver of our energy future.
Thirdly, using renewable energy, like solar, is better for our health, reducing emissions of pollutants, and improving our air quality.
Many towns and cities throughout the country have recognized the transformative power and importance of solar, and it’s a proud moment when Fairfield harnesses this source of energy too.
I urge the Board of Selectman to support this vital project, and it is our hope that the town will provide further opportunities to take advantage of the clean, cost-savings benefits of renewable sources of energy.
Alexis Harrison, District 3 FairPLAN Chairman
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