Ridgefield High School Unveils 1 MW Solar Carport, Generating $1.5 Million in Savings and Advancing Clean Energy Goals

 New solar installation provides clean power, reduces energy costs, and supports long-term sustainability for the community.

RIDGEFIELD, Conn., Aug. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Town of Ridgefield, in partnership with Davis Hill Development and the Connecticut Green Bank, is proud to announce the completion and commissioning of a 1,038 kW solar carport at Ridgefield High School, a landmark project that reflects the town's long-standing commitment to sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and educational excellence.

Generating approximately 1.3 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually, the system will reduce the school's energy costs and carbon footprint while delivering an estimated $1.5 million in savings over the next 25 years. Designed to power the equivalent of nearly 100 homes per year, the solar installation also serves as a highly visible symbol of Ridgefield's leadership in climate action and community stewardship.

"This project is a great example of what's possible when forward-thinking communities and strong partners come together," said Micah Brill, Vice President of Asset Management at Davis Hill Development. "Ridgefield had a clear vision, and with the support of the Green Bank and Patriot Renewable Energy Capital, we were able to bring that vision to life–delivering real savings, clean energy, and long-term value to the town."

The project was financed through an innovative structure that included support from the Connecticut Green Bank and a tax equity investment from Patriot Renewable Energy Capital. AEC Solar served as the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) partner, completing the carport on an accelerated summer schedule to avoid disruptions to the school year. The project also benefited from federal Investment Tax Credits enabled by the Inflation Reduction Act–highlighting how supportive national policies can translate into local cost savings and environmental impact.

"At the Green Bank, we're always looking to foster partnerships that make the benefits of clean energy projects a reality, including creating significant energy savings and supporting jobs in our communities," said Mariana Cardenas Trief, Director of Investments at Connecticut Green Bank. "This is the latest of multiple solar projects that we have worked with DHD Renewables and the Town to complete, and we are proud to continue this support as they reduce their energy costs and move Connecticut closer to its clean energy goals."

The solar system is uniquely integrated into four separate Town- and School-owned electric meters, allowing for optimal use of on-site solar production and full participation in programs like Connecticut's Non-Residential Renewable Energy Solutions (NRES), Zero Emission Renewable Energy Credits (ZRECs), and Class I RECs.

This solar carport builds on Ridgefield's broader sustainability initiative, which began nearly a decade ago and includes rooftop solar installations at eight other schools and municipal buildings.

About Davis Hill Development
Davis Hill Development (DHD), a subsidiary of Skyview Ventures, is a leading clean energy developer providing turnkey solar and storage solutions that deliver environmental, financial, and community benefits. Since 2013, DHD has developed and now operates nearly 200 distributed energy projects across 15 states.

DHD helps municipalities, businesses, and landowners reduce energy costs through solar installations and community solar programs—including initiatives that expand access for low-to-moderate income (LMI) residents. The company also leases rooftops, parking lots, and land for solar development, turning underutilized space into reliable revenue. Learn more at www.davishilldevelopment.com.

About the Connecticut Green Bank
The Connecticut Green Bank was established by the Connecticut General Assembly in 2011 as the nation's first state-level green bank and has since supported the creation of nearly 30,000 green jobs in the state, while reducing the energy cost burden on over 71,000 families, businesses, and nonprofits. The Green Bank's vision is a planet protected by the love of humanity and its mission is to confront climate change by increasing and accelerating investment into Connecticut's green economy to create more resilient, healthier, and equitable communities. For more information, visit ctgreenbank.com.

About Patriot Renewable Energy Capital ("PREC")
PREC is a tax equity provider for distributed generation and utility-scale renewable energy projects nationwide. The firm specializes in efficient, developer-friendly structures that help unlock the full value of federal tax credits. With a proven track-record of over $150 million invested, PREC supports a diverse portfolio of solar, wind, battery storage, and hydroelectric assets. The firm is affiliated with Jay Cashman, Inc., a multidisciplinary development and construction company.

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SOURCE Davis Hill Development