Newton proposes a solar canopy at Countryside Elementary

What happened

Newton is seeking approval to negotiate a 25-year agreement for a solar canopy at Countryside Elementary School, with construction targeted for summer 2027. Paired with rooftop solar, the proposed systems are projected to cover 96% of the school's electricity use and save $1.12 million over 25 years; final terms remain subject to negotiation.

Why it matters to families

If approved, the project would add on-site energy generation at Countryside and is projected to lower the school's electricity costs over the long term.

The evidence

The City asks the School Committee to authorize negotiations for a parking-lot solar canopy before seeking City Council approval. The memo targets summer 2027 construction and estimates combined rooftop-and-canopy production of 529,000 kWh annually, 96% of Countryside's energy use, and $1.122 million in savings over 25 years; project economics and design remain subject to negotiation.

The source