Celebrating Renewable Energy At Reed

By Kendra Bobowick

A thick yellow ribbon fluttered to the floor on either side of student Romy Gold, who stood holding giant  scissors.

Behind her and applauding Monday, March 21, were town officials and supporters out to celebrate last year’s solar panel installation at Reed Intermediate School.

Talking over the school lobby’s acoustics, Principal Sharon Epple welcomed Board of Education members, Connecticut Clean Energy Fund members, First Selectman Pat Llodra, business men and women, and green supporters to the brief ceremony recognizing those who have played a role in Newtown’s responsible energy use.

Remembering the “wonderful experience” for the students watching as the panels went up last year, she said she is “happy” Reed was the recipient.

“This is just the beginning,” said Superintendent Janet Robinson. Impressed that the “citizens of our community” were able to “make this happen,” Dr Robinson added, “I am encouraged for students to see [energy] alternatives.”

The town earned the solar panels installed on the school’s roof through the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund’s initiative promoted by Newtown’s then Clean Energy Task Force. The group is now established as the Sustainable Energy Commission.

Mrs Llodra said, “It is the responsibility of government to take the leading role, and the [panels] are here because of the work of the task force.” She believes that as the Sustainable Energy Commission, the members can “keep conservation alive at the government level,” and keep green efforts moving forward.

Commission Chairman Dan Holmes said, “We have limited funds, but with creative efforts, we’ll get there.” Remembering the beginning of the task force, which formed several years ago, he said, “I did not realize at first the importance of [renewable energy].” He noted the significance of “handing our planet to the next generation with clean air, clean water …”

President of Curtis Packaging Don Droppo, Jr, spoke regarding his company’s efforts to establish a zero-carbon footprint. He recalls learning about renewable energy, saying, “There is no guide book.” He spoke with others, investigated, and made his decision to go green. “Together, I feel we can change the nation and lead to a brighter energy future.”

Clean Energy Fund Director of Marketing Initiatives Bob Wall discussed his fund’s work with communities, including Newtown’s energy commission, and Curtis Packaging, noting, “A business led the way,” which is “putting the cart before the horse.” He said that the community followed and “that’s where the magic is.”

“We can create a vibrant green economy,” said Mr Wall. The solar installation at Reed is also a “learning tool,” he said. “It will be generating energy for decades to come.”

Minutes later as Romy poised the open scissors near the ribbon, Mr Holmes’s son Eli stood beside Mr Droppo to watch the yellow strands fall.