SHEFFIELD, Mass., Jan. 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- [ PowerPlay Solar Development ], an integrated solar development and finance company based in Ridgefield, CT, announces today, the commissioning and commencement of operation of the 2 MW (megawatt), 9 acre photovoltaic solar plant developed by the company at [ Berkshire School ] in Sheffield, MA. The project is currently the largest operating solar facility of its kind at any school or college in New England.

(Photo: [ http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120123/NE39131 ] )

PowerPlay Solar Development designed and constructed the project in collaboration with [ Spire Solar Systems ], a solar systems design builder based in Bedford, MA. The Berkshire School ground-mounted system is composed of 8,332 high performance crystalline silicon solar panels manufactured in the USA by [ SolarWorld ], a worldwide leader in offering brand-name, high quality, crystalline solar-power technology.

The solar field will generate approximately 45% of the school's electricity needs and is part of the School's broad sustainability master plan submitted by Berkshire students to the School's Board of Trustees. An important cornerstone of the plan is having the School achieve carbon neutrality by 2016.

"Committing to this solar project is a significant statement by [ Berkshire School ] on environmental stewardship. It's been exciting for our team to develop this impressive solar power plant in support of the School's sustainability and energy goals," said Steven Levine, senior development partner at PowerPlay Solar Development.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for Berkshire School--financially, educationally and environmentally," says Mike Maher, Berkshire's head of school. "Using our own land to generate clean electricity is the right and responsible thing to do."

About Berkshire School

Berkshire School is a private, co-ed boarding school for grades 9 – 12, located in Sheffield, MA. Rooted in an inspiring natural setting, Berkshire School instills the highest standards of character and citizenship and a commitment to academic, artistic, and athletic excellence. The Berkshire School community fosters diversity, a dedication to environmental stewardship, and an enduring love for learning.

About Spire Corporation

Spire Corporation, (Nasdaq: [ SPIR ]), is a full-service provider of large-scale commercial and federal solar systems, and a producer of capital equipment and turn-key manufacturing lines to create photovoltaic (PV) modules. To learn more, visit [ www.SpireCorp.com ].

About PowerPlay Solar Development

PowerPlay Solar Development combines leading edge solar technology with strong knowledge and relationships within the renewable energy sector to offer cost-effective, custom solutions to project clients. PowerPlay Solar Development specializes in offering comprehensive services to the education market. For more information, please visit our website [ www.powerplaysolar.com ] or contact us at [ info@powerplaysolar.com ] or call 203-431-9703.

Contact:
Mariah Hutchings
203-431-9703

SOURCE PowerPlay Solar Development

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PowerPlay Solar Commissions 2MW Solar Field at Berkshire School in Sheffield, MA

PowerPlay Solar Commissions 2MW Solar Field at Berkshire School in Sheffield, MA

This project is now the largest operating solar facility at any school in New England