VT Using Solar to Power 10 State Buildings

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The state of Vermont is going to use solar power to run 10 state office buildings across the state, including all seven Vermont prisons.

Governor Peter Shumlin announced Wednesday the state had signed a contract to install solar arrays for the 10 buildings, each capable of producing about 500 kilowatts of electricity. In some cases the buildings will get all its power from the solar panels.

There is no cost to taxpayers and it will save the state $1 million.

In addition to the state's prisons, the solar arrays will be for the Pavilion office building in Montpelier, which houses the governor's office, and state office buildings in Brattleboro and Bennington.

Officials say installation of the panels could begin in the spring.

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