Portland is one step closer to achieving its goal of running entirely on renewable energy by 2040.
The city recently completed construction and began use of a solar array that sits atop the capped Ocean Avenue landfill. The project unfolded over a number of years and faced some controversy resulting from the condition of the landfill before the array was installed.
At a news conference Tuesday, Portland Mayor Ethan Strimling said the project is a plus for the city, its residents and the planet.
“This is a very important step in that process of making sure that we can reduce our impact on the planet and also reduce the costs of the people that live in the city of Portland. This is a win-win for everyone,” he said. “City hall will now be powered by the sun and I think that’s something we can take great pride in.”
To meet its goals, the city also built an array at the Riverside Golf Course and another on the Portland Jetport parking structure. The project has prompted some renewable energy advocates to call on incoming Maine Gov. Janet Mills to push for more investment in solar at the state level.