The new solar panels will help the school department reduce energy costs and improve efficiency
By KAREN GARNETT | Biddeford School Department
The Biddeford School Department has taken a significant step toward a more sustainable and cost-efficient future with the installation of a rooftop solar energy system at Biddeford High School (BHS).
The project reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility, fiscal stewardship, and innovative solutions that benefit both students and taxpayers. The solar array will generate clean, renewable electricity on-site, reducing the school’s reliance on fossil fuels while helping to stabilize energy costs over time.
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The system was installed at zero upfront cost and carries no ongoing operations and maintenance expenses for the district through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Under this model, Blue Haven Solar acted as an investor partner financing the $1,490,560 project, allowing the Biddeford School Department to access clean energy at a fixed, reduced rate without placing a burden on taxpayers. The district will purchase the electricity generated at a starting rate of $0.12 per kilowatt-hour, with a modest 2 percent annual escalator.
“This project is both an environmental and financial win for our community,” said Jeremy Ray, Superintendent of Schools. “During a time when basic utility costs continue to rise significantly, we are taking proactive steps to reduce overall operating costs while also modeling responsible, forward-thinking practices for our students. This approach reflects our commitment to being fiscally responsible with taxpayer dollars while building a more sustainable future.”
. . . allowing the Biddeford School Department to access clean energy at a fixed, reduced rate without placing a burden on taxpayers
ReVision Energy completed the 380.5 kW installation of more than 700 solar panels. The system is expected to generate more than 439,218 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean electricity annually, enough to power about 160 Maine homes and offset roughly 430,000 pounds of carbon emissions. In addition to the high school installation, a second solar array located at 10 Maplewood Avenue further expands the district’s renewable energy capacity. This system includes 1,442 panels with a total capacity of 692.2 kW (DC) and 570.9 kW (AC), supported by 33 inverters. In its first year, it is expected to generate approximately 819,082 kWh of electricity.
Because the solar array is newly operational, the district will monitor solar credit generation over the first 12 months to establish an accurate baseline. These credits remain valid for one year, and any excess generation beyond school usage can be transferred to other city of Biddeford accounts—creating a potential cost-saving benefit for the broader municipality at no additional cost.
Over time, the financial impact of both systems is expected to be substantial. Estimated savings are projected at approximately $299,000 during the first five years of the PPA, with total savings reaching more than $2.1 million over the full term, depending on contract duration and energy usage patterns. By reducing exposure to rising utility rates, the project delivers long-term budget stability for the district and the community.
The environmental benefits are equally significant. The Maplewood Avenue system alone is projected to offset approximately 802,700 pounds of carbon dioxide annually—equivalent to removing 79 passenger vehicles from the road, eliminating nearly 41,000 gallons of gasoline consumption, or recycling 124 tons of waste each year.
Estimated savings are projected at approximately $299,000 during the first five years of the PPA, with total savings reaching more than $2.1 million over the full term
The new array was financed by Blue Haven Solar, a solar financing entity of Blue Haven Initiative, a family office that invests for competitive returns and positive social and environmental impact. The projects reflect the joint mission of Blue Haven Solar and ReVision Energy to accelerate the transition to clean energy by making solar cost savings more accessible.
By offering PAA financing models, schools like Biddeford High School are able to install solar at little to no upfront costs while paying a fixed, reduced rate for the electricity generated allowing for reduced energy bills and savings back to the community.
Despite common misconceptions, northern New England receives strong solar exposure, even exceeding that of some global leaders in solar adoption. As technology has advanced and costs have declined, solar has become a more affordable and practical option for schools and municipalities.
In addition to reducing dependence on fossil fuels, solar energy supports local economies by creating jobs and keeping energy dollars within the community.
In addition to its operational and environmental benefits, the solar installation offers educational opportunities for students by providing a real-world example of renewable energy in action. During construction, ReVision Energy representatives collaborated with BHS Science educators to discuss how the system could serve as a teaching tool to support curriculum connections in science, technology, and environmental studies, helping to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
This initiative is part of the Biddeford School Department’s broader commitment to energy efficiency, sustainability, and responsible long-term planning. In recent years, the district has made significant strides in reducing energy consumption, including converting approximately 90 percent of all lighting districtwide to energy-efficient LED systems as part of ongoing facility upgrades.
By continuing to invest in infrastructure that lowers costs and environmental impact, the district remains focused on fiscal responsibility while supporting a more sustainable future for its schools and community.
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