STOCKTON SPRINGS — Sundog Solar recently completed the installation of a 32-kilowatt solar system for the Town of Stockton Springs. This project is projected to save the town more than $106,000 over the life of the solar energy system.

Sundog Solar, a locally-owned solar company located in Searsport, installed and owns the solar panel system. It has a power purchase agreement (PPA) to sell energy to the Town of Stockton Springs for a lower rate than the town currently pays the utility company. According to a news release from Sundog Solar, this will result in immediate cost savings while reducing reliance on imported energy.

Tis solar installation is also a way to hedge against rising energy costs. Stockton Springs will have the option to buy the solar energy system, starting in six years, or it can continue to purchase electricity from Sundog Solar at a discounted rate. 

"This is a good long-term strategy for Stockton Springs to reduce expenses for taxpayers," said Chuck Piper, co-owner of Sundog Solar. "Under the power purchase agreement, the town is now paying less money per unit of electricity. This is a win-win arrangement for the town, taxpayers, and the environment."

The solar energy systems consist of 105 Q CELLS solar panels which are mounted on the roof of the town garage. The solar panels will generate an estimated 38,500 kWh of electricity annually and have a design life of 30 years. The solar energy output is projected to offset the electricity use of the town office, public works garage, fire department, ballpark, and harbor.