Acushnet Select Board greenlights school solar canopy, names conservation agent

ACUSHNET — October 21, 2025 — Acushnet Select Board unanimously authorized Select Energy to advance a no-cost solar canopy over the school parking lot and appointed a new part-time conservation agent. School Business Officer Alderman Petronella briefed the board on the 25-year power purchase agreement, under which Select Energy would own and maintain a solar structure at the elementary and middle school campus while the district buys electricity at a rate discounted below National Grid pricing. Select Energy representative Alan Giles told the board the fixed rate means "as electric rates go up the savings stay with the school district." The board also unanimously appointed Julia Gonsalves as conservation agent at 19.5 hours per week, with a New Bedford conservation agent agreeing to serve as mentor. Separately, Treasurer-Collector Jamie Lyn reported delayed quarterly water bills — caused by staffing gaps and meters transmitting reads in reverse — are expected to mail by approximately October 29, roughly two weeks behind schedule, with residents receiving 30 days to pay upon receipt.