State Rep. Puppolo, residents against proposed solar array in Springfield due to excess water

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – State Representative Angelo Puppolo is calling for a solar company to reconsider their proposal to build a solar array in the Sixteen Acres neighborhood due to concerns over excess water in the area.

While State Rep. Puppolo is typically in favor of solar energy proposals, in a statement sent to 22News he said he believes the proposed area is not an ideal location to build a solar array. The company NextGrid plans to submit a proposal with the Springfield Planning Board for a solar array along the Five Town Plaza in Sixteen Acres.

Several residents contacted Puppolo concerned about this proposal. Puppolo says excess water in the area may be a concern for the site. “The clearing and building of a Solar Farm on this property could cause significant environmental impact, including water displacement,” said Puppolo. “Additionally, many residents are concerned and hope to prevent such damages.”

Puppolo says residents are also concerned about the additional influx of traffic in an already popular area.

The proposed area is not considered a designated wetlands but Puppolo says excess water may still be a significant issue. Puppolo is asking NextGrid to reconsider their proposal.

NextGrid’s director of development Daniel Serber told State House News Service he has not been in contact with Puppolo and he has not seen the letter. Serber said NextGrid planned to buy the purchase the property next week and has already modified their proposal to incorporate stormwater and groundwater concerns. Serber said they will now install retention and infiltration ponds as well as pollinator grasses.

“We’re committed to doing everything not only by the book, but exceeding all requirements that would be in any community. We’re kind of dumbfounded by the opposition,” Serber said. “If you look at the scientific evidence and the civil engineering, it’s pretty easy to see it’s going to be really impossible for water to escape.”

Local News

Did you see a blimp in the sky? Here’s why

Woman dead after crash on Southampton Road in Westfield

Massachusetts School Principal of the Year awarded to elementary in Berkshire County

Holyoke Public Schools receive state funding for electric school buses

22News began broadcasting in March 1953 providing local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Follow WWLP-22News on X @WWLP22News and Facebook .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.