[Editor's note: The following is a Letter to the Editor submitted by Alicia Barton McDevitt, CEO and executive director of Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.]

To the Editor:

Thanks to the people of Melrose, Solarize Massachusetts was a resounding success this year.

The group purchasing program, which helps to make solar more affordable, is a joint venture of the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources launched in 17 communities across the state this year. The program generated 803 solar contracts signed statewide representing 5.1 megawatts of clean, renewable energy. In Melrose, residents and businesses have contracted 425.6 kilowatts of new solar, saving hundreds of dollars annually on their electric bills. 

The program’s local volunteer coordinator, Lori Timmermann, was key to this success. Martha Grover support was also invaluable to this effort, bridging the gap between state agencies and municipal officials and Melrose residents.

We simply could not have seen these results without the hard work of volunteers, advocates and municipal leaders on the ground in Melrose. Thanks to its leadership, Melrose will pave the way towards a cleaner energy future for the next generation.

Alicia Barton McDevitt

CEO and Executive Director, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center