By Kathy Dickinson
Since last summer the town of Becket has received notices of intent and permit applications for several proposed solar farms with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs). To date, four proposals have been submitted, with at least three currently under review. The projects are proposed on privately owned parcels that are leased or under contract with solar development companies. If all projects are approved and constructed, more than 100 acres of previously forested land could be converted to solar-array use, including removal of overhead tree canopy.
Becket’s first large-scale solar array is located at Tanglewood Circle and is connected to the existing overhead electrical grid. Incentives available through the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program have led developers to include BESS equipment in current proposals. These containerized systems are designed to store electricity generated on site for later use during periods of higher demand. As this technology continues to evolve, residents have asked about potential local risks and benefits. At this time, aside from negotiated PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreements, the broader impacts for residents, including effects on individual energy costs, are not yet known.
Under town bylaws projects like these typically move to the Planning Board after completing Conservation Commission review and Zoning Board review. The Conservation Commission is continuing review of one application currently under its jurisdiction and posts related documents under the “Proposed Solar Installation Projects” heading on the town website, but all projects are currently waiting for additional information from the applicants before advancing to the Zoning or Planning boards. Other boards and committees may provide comments during this process, and the Planning Board may approve projects with conditions or restrictions. Meeting notices are posted at least forty-eight hours in advance and include Zoom links for remote participation.
The Energy Committee will host an informational session on Saturday, February 7, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, accessible via Zoom. The committee currently provides FAQs and resources on energy efficiency, renewable energy, home solar systems, and power-outage safety. There are plans to add additional information related to solar and BESS projects. Residents are encouraged to attend the February 7 session for current information and updates.
For more details:
- Visit townofbecket.org to view calendars for town meetings and community events
- Scroll down the left side of the town homepage, and select “Subscribe to News” to receive agendas and/or minutes by email
- To view submissions and drawings provided to the Conservation Commission on their section of the town website, click on “Proposed Solar Installation Projects”
