SolarCity have begun work on a 1-megawatt solar system for the South Central Regional Water Authority in Hamden, CT. The ground-mounted solar system is expected to include more than 4,000 solar panels—making it one of the largest in the state. The Regional Water Authority (RWA) will save money by paying less for the solar power than they’re currently paying for utility power while reducing both pollution and water use.

“This solar photovoltaic system, one of the largest of its kind in Connecticut, will allow the Authority to be more efficient and lower our energy costs. These savings are passed on to our customers in the form of reduced rate increases,” said Larry L. Bingaman, the Regional Water Authority’s President and CEO.

SolarCity, with Connecticut operations based in Rocky Hill, will install, finance and maintain the panels. The 1-megawatt (mW) ground-mounted system is expected to provide more than 1.4 million kilowatt-hours (kwh) of energy each year—enough to power more than 120 average-sized Connecticut homes. The project supports the RWA’s strategic goals of operating more efficiently and promoting environmental sustainability, and fosters the Town of Hamden’s “Clean and Green” initiative.

“The South Central Connecticut Water Authority’s use of clean energy is not only saving money for rate payers, it’s also saving water by offsetting dirty energy sources that use water as part of the electricity generation process,” said Leon Keshishian, SolarCity’s East Coast Regional Vice President. “Solar makes sense for all types of businesses, municipalities and homeowners here in Connecticut.”