To the editor:
ConVal Solar took a big step forward when the ConVal School Board voted unanimously to support a solar project at ConVal High School.
First to thank are the School Board members, who took the time to learn about solar power purchase agreements and why ConVal Solar is a unique opportunity for the district, a no-cost, cost-saving educational opportunity.
The project originally faced skepticism, with opinions on a solar project ranging from a nuisance to ‘nice to have.’ So this vote was a victory in itself, to bring the ConVal community together, to hear each other’s concerns for the climate, demands for climate education and opportunities for taking action. ConVal Solar will reduce the use fracked gas, reducing carbon emissions and smog. Perhaps even more importantly, the ConVal community is joining larger discussions about how to keep our energy dollars local, and how to make our communities resilient and sustainable for our children.
Hearty thank you also to the many students and community members that turned out for the last two School Board meetings in support of ConVal Solar. Whether you spoke or stayed silent, you are all part of the conversation, and the solution to the climate crisis, thank you.
Emily Manns
Chairwoman of the Peterborough Energy Committee