Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility approves state’s first solar resiliency pilot program

The Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility (DESEU) voted to approve the state’s first solar resiliency pilot program. According to officials, the program will demonstrate the enhanced value created by coupling solar PV with energy storage technology for four Delaware-based program participants.

Participants include First Baptist Church, New Castle; Selbyville Fire Department, Selbyville; Indian River Fire Department, Millsboro; and Aetna Fire Department, Newark.

Each participant will enter into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with EZnergy and its financing partner, Edison Power corporation, for a term of 15 years.  The participants agree to purchase all of the electricity generated by the solar assets located on their property. This electricity is priced at a discount to electricity from the utility, lowering electric bills.

The participants save money and have the benefit of battery back-up, charged by the solar array, which provides electricity to specified circuits in their buildings in the event of a blackout, DESEU officials said.  DESEU provides financial support for the project by purchasing all of the Solar Renewable Energy Certificates from the project for 15 years and providing low-cost capital.

Gabel Associates is the energy consultant on the project.