Nautilus Solar Energy® Opens Community Solar Farm Built on Former Sand Quarry

Transforming compromised land into a producer of clean energy, local jobs, and economic growth

York, Maine (June 28, 2023) – Nautilus Solar Energy, LLC, (“Nautilus”) a leading owner-operator of solar projects throughout the United States, today announced the official opening of a 7MW community solar farm in North Berwick, ME. Constructed on a former sand pit, this innovative project represents the transformation of compromised land into a productive source of clean energy, local jobs, and economic growth for the local community.

Nautilus is dedicated to sustainable development and community engagement. In fact, 35 percent of the development of the community solar farm was provided by local skilled workers in the construction, engineering, and electrical fields. An additional 20-25 full-time positions were created for ongoing electrical and site vegetation management crews. By actively involving local talent, the project has not only injected vital income into the community but also stimulated economic growth. Such initiatives play a crucial role in advancing clean energy and creating a brighter future for all.

"We are thrilled to celebrate the opening of this unique community solar farm in North Berwick," said Eric LaMora, Executive Director of Community Solar at Nautilus Solar Energy. "By repurposing a former sand quarry, we have achieved much more than clean energy generation. This project serves as a shining example of the potential to unlock local job opportunities and stimulate economic growth. We are proud to contribute to a sustainable and prosperous future for the entire community."

Endurance Clean Energy, LLC (“Endurance”), a prominent developer of community solar and energy storage, was the developer of this community solar initiative. In 2021, Nautilus acquired the Quarry community solar farm, along with three other projects totaling 25.4 MWdc, from Endurance. Nautilus is the long-term owner and operator of the community solar farm, responsible for project management, asset management, maintenance services, and subscriber acquisition.

“Our team worked diligently with the quarry owner-operator, town, and state to properly manage the land use transition from sand to solar. We are excited to see those efforts realized today,” said Michael Lucini, President of Endurance Clean Energy. “Previously, this site contributed to building Maine for many years. Now, it will contribute to sustainably powering Maine for many more years.”

The newly inaugurated community solar farm provides clean energy to 66 commercial off-takers within the Central Maine Power (CMP) utility territory. Boasting an annual production of 10 million kWh, this solar farm is poised to make a significant impact. It has the potential to offset 7 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to removing 1500 cars from the roads.

Qualified under the Maine Net Energy Billing Commercial program (NEB), the community solar project presents an invaluable opportunity for subscribers to reduce their monthly utility bills as well as their carbon footprint. It enables residents and businesses throughout Maine, who previously faced obstacles accessing or affording solar energy, to participate in the community solar program. Through this initiative, residents can save 15% on their monthly utility bill without the need for complex and expensive rooftop installations.

Community solar programs are one of the fastest-growing sectors of the renewable energy industry, providing locally produced, affordable clean energy to residents and businesses. The development of community solar projects drives engagement and collaboration in communities through job creation, economic development, and responsible land use.

Photo Caption: At a ribbon cutting ceremony at the North Berwick, ME site, Nautilus Solar Energy, LLC, (“Nautilus”) announced the official opening of a 7MW community solar farm constructed on a former sand pit. The innovative project represents the transformation of compromised land into a productive source of clean energy, local jobs, and economic growth for the local community. Attendees included Katie Fellows, Constituent Services Representative for U.S. Senator Angus King, Mike Lucini and Greg Lucini of Endurance Clean Energy, Melissa Hanson of Nautilus Solar Energy, Mark O’Brien of Goldmark, LLC, Andrea Sarris, Constituent Services Representative for U.S. Senator Susan Collins, representatives of Goldmark, LLC, Jeanne Christie, District Representative for U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree, and representatives of Nautilus Solar Energy.

About Nautilus Solar Energy

Nautilus Solar Energy®, LLC is a leading community solar company, providing clean energy to residential and commercial customers in local communities. Nautilus operates and manages solar farms in 10 states and is responsible for financing, development, maintenance, and customer service for the lifetime of the project. Founded in 2006, Nautilus has helped shape the future of solar to provide an equitable and affordable renewable energy choice for all. Nautilus is owned by Power Sustainable, a wholly owned subsidiary of Power Corporation of Canada. Power Sustainable is a multi-platform alternative asset manager with a long-term investment approach focused on sustainable strategies. For more information on Nautilus Solar Energy visit nautilussolar.com.  Join Nautilus on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About Endurance Clean Energy

Endurance Clean Energy, LLC develops community solar and battery energy storage systems in select states nationwide. Its mission is to use Clean Energy for Good by delivering sustainable solutions that benefit landowners, communities, and businesses for decades to come. For more information on Endurance Clean Energy visit enduranceCE.com.

Contact:

Nautilus Solar Energy

Carlene Pruitt

908-795-3038

Carlene@nautilussolar.com