FRANKLIN WILL PARTICIPATE IN RENEWABLE ENERGY PROGRAM

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, New Jersey—July 16, 2010—Franklin Township will take its first step in reaping energy savings through solar energy when it participates in Somerset County’s renewable-energy program.

Franklin’s Municipal Building on DeMott Lane and the Public Works garage on Berry Street will be the first municipal buildings to be equipped with the new technology. They are just two of the 32 locations throughout the County, including several Franklin Township schools, that will be equipped.

Mayor Brian Levine said, “Franklin Township is always looking for ways to save taxpayers’ money, and we are pleased to be part of this program taking the environmentally-smart step into the latest technology. It’s a win-win situation for all involved.”

Funding will be through the sale of Somerset County Improvement Authority bonds. The cost is expected to be recouped through the generation of electricity and sale of the solar renewable-energy credit. The savings in energy costs for Franklin are anticipated at 20 to 35 percent.
 
The County will be bidding for a company that will design, install, operate and maintain the solar panels and equipment and sell the renewable energy to the participating entities. The project should be completed some time in 2011.