Vermont utility eyes major solar project

[OKIsItJustMe]

http://www.necn.com/Boston/SciTech/2009/02/12/Vermont-utility-eyes-major/1234474989.html

Vermont utility eyes major solar project

(NECN: Anya Huneke, Rutland, VT) - Vermont's largest utility is trying out a new way of generating power for its customers. Central Vermont Public Service, or CVPS, is planning to install a major solar array in Rutland. The company hopes to not only capture and distribute solar energy, but also learn more about its potential.

In an empty field adjacent to the CVPS facility, energy experts plan to install a 50 kilowatt solar array -- three rows, 265 panels -- each 3x5 feet wide.

Steve Costello of CVPS says it will be the first major solar project in the state to feed power exclusively to the grid.

One of the people at the helm of the project is John Blittersdorf. He knows a bit about solar -- he started CV Solar and Wind 13 years ago. He also has been living off solar energy in Chittenden for 30 years. He sees great potential in solar technology. He says it can be used virtually anywhere, in any size. It's made from silicon, an abundant mineral, and it offers the most promise in addressing the energy crisis over the long term.

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(Video available at link.)