Plankton Energy
1798 kW – Newton, MA
Plankton Energy Launches 1.8 MW Hybrid Solar Project at 85 Wells Avenue in Newton, MA
Newton, MA — Plankton Energy has completed a 1,798-kilowatt (kW) hybrid solar installation at 85 Wells Avenue, a commercial office property in Newton, Massachusetts. The project includes a combination of rooftop and parking lot canopy solar arrays, delivering clean energy through both community solar and behind-the-meter power purchase agreement (PPA) structures.
The system marks one of the largest dual-model solar installations in Plankton’s growing Massachusetts portfolio. By blending onsite utility savings for the property owner with community-wide energy access, the project showcases how solar infrastructure can be tailored to maximize both economic and environmental value.
Three Systems, One High-Impact Project
The rooftop portion of the system—sized at approximately 360 kW DC—is structured under a PPA agreement, allowing the building at 85 Wells Avenue to purchase clean electricity directly from Plankton at a discounted rate compared to traditional utility pricing. This model guarantees immediate operating cost reductions with no upfront investment by the property owner.
Meanwhile, the parking lot canopy systems—which adds roughly 1,440 kW of additional solar capacity—is designated as a community solar project, delivering low-cost renewable energy to households across the region. Residents can subscribe to the project and receive monthly credits on their electric bills, reducing their utility costs while supporting clean energy expansion in their own communities.
“This project at 85 Wells Avenue demonstrates the flexibility and scalability of solar energy,” said a spokesperson from Plankton Energy. “By combining PPA and community solar models, we’re delivering maximum impact to both the building owner and the broader community—financially, operationally, and environmentally.”
Making the Most of Office Property Infrastructure
With demand for sustainable commercial buildings on the rise, this installation helps position 85 Wells Avenue as a next-generation energy-conscious asset. The use of parking lot canopy structures not only adds solar capacity but also provides shaded, weather-protected parking for tenants and visitors—enhancing the property’s market appeal and tenant experience.
For the rooftop system, the PPA structure delivers predictable, long-term energy savings, improving the building’s net operating income and ESG performance. For the community, the canopy system opens the door to clean energy access for renters, homeowners, and small businesses who might otherwise face barriers to rooftop solar.
The dual-use model also allows the site to contribute meaningfully to Newton’s local climate goals, while remaining fully functional as a high-traffic commercial property.
Powered by the SMART Program
The project was supported in part by the Massachusetts SMART (Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target) Program, a performance-based incentive designed to accelerate solar adoption across the state. SMART supports a wide range of installation types—including rooftop, canopy, and community solar systems—and helps reduce project costs while enhancing long-term financial value.
Massachusetts continues to lead the nation in solar adoption thanks to programs like SMART, which make it feasible for both property owners and residents to participate in the clean energy economy.
Plankton’s Turnkey Approach
As with all Plankton Energy projects, 85 Wells Avenue was delivered as a fully managed, turnkey solution. From system design and permitting to construction, interconnection, and subscriber management, Plankton oversaw every step of the project—ensuring a seamless experience for the property owner and community members alike.
With a focus on customized, capital-efficient solar models, Plankton helps commercial property owners convert rooftops and parking areas into revenue-generating energy assets without the typical financial or logistical hurdles.
“This is a textbook example of how we help owners unlock the full value of their real estate,” the spokesperson added. “We designed a solar solution that works with the site’s infrastructure, financial objectives, and community role—all while future-proofing the property for long-term energy performance.”
Project Snapshot: 85 Wells Avenue, Newton, MA
- Total System Size: 1,798 kW (360 kW rooftop + 1,44 kW canopy)
- System Types: Rooftop (Behind-the-Meter PPA) + Parking Lot Canopy (Community Solar)
- Mounting Types: Fixed Tilt Roof + Steel Canopy Structures
- Building Type: Office
- Estimated Annual Generation: ~2,050,000 kWh
- Program Participation: Massachusetts SMART Program
- Host Benefits: Discounted onsite electricity, long-term lease payments, ESG alignment
- Community Benefits: Utility bill savings for local households, expanded solar access
About Plankton Energy
Plankton Energy is a national turnkey solar developer specializing in custom renewable energy solutions for real estate owners, mission-driven institutions, and community stakeholders. Through its fully managed, zero-upfront-cost model, Plankton enables property owners to reduce operating expenses, increase sustainability performance, and support the transition to decentralized clean energy.