Robbins Report

Wellfleet's on the way to going green

Green flagpole, green library, what's next for the Outer Cape town?

   The town's flagpole is now illuminated at night by stored power from solar panel technology.

Story & Photographs by Peter Robbins

As I visited with Wellfleet Town Administrator Paul Sieloff yesterday, it was apparent he was enthusiastic and energized over the Town's efforts and completion of a green project and was preparing to send out a request for proposal for another.

Recently, through a grant and some donations, the flagpole on the lawn of the Town Hall will now be illuminated nightly at no cost to the town.  The installation of the solar-powered lighting system was made possible by a cooperative effort between the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, the Town of Wellfleet and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Sieloff is excited that the flags will now be illuminated each evening.  He took particular pride in letting Veterans know that the MIA-POW flag would be illuminated as well.

Another equally significant green project is nearing its funding goal and Sieloff's staff is getting ready to prepare a request for proposal for the installation of solar panels at the Town's public library.  In May of 2008, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, the Wellfleet Public Library and the Wellfleet Alternative Energy Committee embarked on a fund raising effort to raise $60,000 to help meet the costs of installing solar panels on the library roof under a rebate program from the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC).

To date $52,000 has been raised.  This amount began with a $30,000 contribution from an anonymous donor.  With donations from individuals, benefit performances, book signings, and quilt sales, they have almost reached their goal. 

It is predicted that the new system will generate over 20,111 kW/ hours each year.  The total cost for the system is $132,185.  The MTC provides some $73,000 in incentives leaving the library responsible for about $60,000--the goal they are approaching rapidly.

The new solar panel system will provide at least 25% of the library's electrical needs, saving some $5,000 per year.  The system will also provide power during closed hours which will credit back through the grid, possibly allowing for additional savings.  "This is $5,000 right off the top of a budget because of the savings," according to Sieloff.  Over the life of the system, the savings could exceed $200,000+.

"This is all through donations, grants and incentives at no cost to the taxpayers, it's wonderful. We are also seeking other grants to add solar power to other town buildings." - Paul Sieloff, Town Administrator

Sieloff proudly stated, "This is all through donations, grants and incentives at no cost to the taxpayers, it's wonderful. We are also seeking other grants to add solar power to other town buildings."

To participate in this effort to lead Wellfleet towards a greener future, you can make a tax deductible contribution.  Donations should be made out to the "Town of Wellfleet" with "Library Solar" written on the memo line.  Donations may be left with library staff or delivered to the Town Clerk's office at Town Hall. 

Hats off for the Town's efforts and to the many dedicated people involved!