FY26 A.I. From Vision to Portfolio
From Vision to Portfolio: How Lowell Accelerated Solar Adoption
Three years ago, Lowell set out to expand solar across its portfolio to cut costs and support long-term decarbonization goals. After issuing a Request for Information, the City chose Solect, whose thorough response and PowerOptions alignment gave Lowell confidence to pursue a full portfolio strategy. This session will show how Lowell assessed building readiness, paired Massachusetts School Building Authority and other funding sources, secured grants, and mapped out 26 potential projects at schools and municipal facilities. In the first year alone, the City has more than doubled behind-the-meter solar projects. Attendees will learn the steps, tools, and lessons Lowell used to accelerate solar adoption.
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John DiModica
Clean Energy Project Development Executive
Solect Energy
Amanda Dupont
Deputy CFO
Lowell Public Schools
Katherine Moses
Housing and Energy Sustainability Director
City of Lowell
Derek Pinto
Director of Finance and Operations
Lowell Public Schools
Derek Pinto started as the Director of Finance and Operations in Reading Public Schools in July, 2023. Derek began his school business career in California, serving in a K-12 district in the San Francisco Bay area. Business work in higher education as the VP Administrative Services for a 2-year college and VP Administrative Services for a four-year institution followed. Derek began his career in education as a teacher, worked as an Assistant Principal and a Principal inPreK-8 schools. Derek earned a BA (Public Policy & Administration) and B.Ed. from York University, followed by an MBA from McGill University, an MA (Educational Administration) and Ed.D. (Educational Leadership) from California State University. Derek is proud to be a first-year MASBO member and a 3rd year resident of Massachusetts.
Patrick Murphy (Moderator)
Business Manager
Cape Cod Collaborative
Former Barnstable School Committee, former MASC President