Library to Receive Solar Energy System and Backup

CRAFTSBURY – The Craftsbury Energy Committee is partnering with the Craftsbury Public Library and several funding groups to provide the library with a solar electric and battery back-up system. The energy committee is providing their professional expertise in the designing and installation of the renewable energy and back-up power system that will ensure uninterrupted access to communications and library resources in the event of power outages. The system includes roof mounted solar panels, a 20 kWh back-up battery and other components that will provide renewable and reliable power rain or shine.
The project will ensure a safe and reliable work space and access to resources to carry out essential internet-dependent work when power outages make work at home impossible. With this resilient system in place local citizens will be able to access communication and vital information sites as they cope with the challenges of power outages.

The solar generation will also eliminate most of the electric utility costs for the library as well as contribute to Vermont’s goals for renewable energy and resilience. In addition to being directly useful to the library the project will serve as an aspirational example of a resilient energy system that similar organizations can replicate.

The project is made possible through grants from the Association of Rural and Small Libraries, the AKC Foundation, the Vermont Council on Rural Development, municipal American Rescue Plan Act funding, and the donation of many hours of design and installation by members of the Craftsbury Energy Committee. Planning and permitting has begun, with an anticipated completion date in 2023.

For more information, contact the library at (802) 586-9683, director@craftsburypubliclibrary.org or the Craftsbury Energy Committee project manager,

vince@yellowhousefilms.com