Modernizing a Community Hub in Hadley
Project Overview
The Hadley Senior Center is a welcoming community hub in Hampshire County that provides programs, services, and gathering space for local seniors. As a new, energy-conscious facility, the building was designed with long-term sustainability in mind — making it a strong candidate for solar energy.
Goals
The Hadley Senior Center solar project was built around practical needs and long-term community values. Each goal helped shape a system that delivers both cost savings and environmental benefits — all while fitting into the center’s modern design.
Lower Energy Costs
The system was designed to generate over 87,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, helping the town significantly reduce utility expenses at a facility that operates year-round.
Maximize Roof Potential
By installing panels across five sun-facing roof areas, the design makes full use of the center’s available space to deliver reliable, high-volume solar production.
Preserve Building Design
Valley Solar worked to ensure the system complemented the architecture of the newly built center — with clean conduit runs, minimal visual disruption, and thoughtful coordination with town staff.
Support Community Sustainability
This project reflects Hadley’s commitment to cleaner energy and reduced carbon emissions, showing how municipal buildings can lead by example in the transition to renewables.
Valley Solar Solution
Valley Solar designed a rooftop system tailored to the center’s layout and energy needs. Nearly 200 high-efficiency solar panels were installed across five roof sections, using a low-profile mounting system to maintain the building’s appearance.
Some roof areas had attic access, while others required exposed conduit — a challenge that was addressed with care to ensure the system looked clean and professional. Valley Solar worked directly with town officials and the fire department to make sure the system met all safety standards and allowed for emergency roof access where needed.
Electrical upgrades, including a new AC combiner panel, were completed to support the system and allow it to operate efficiently across multiple roof zones.
System Size
84.71 kW DC
Est. Annual Production
87,500 kWh
Impact
The solar array is expected to generate more than 87,000 kilowatt-hours of clean energy each year — saving the town an estimated $18,000 annually on electricity. Over time, it will also prevent more than 37 metric tons of carbon emissions each year, supporting Hadley’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact.
This project shows how municipal buildings can embrace solar energy in a way that’s practical, visually clean, and beneficial to the entire community.
Est. Yearly Savings
$18,375 ($0.21/kWh)
CO₂ Offset
37 metric tons
