The famous fisherman statue at Brown's Wharf has something new to ponder.

Forty-five years ago, the Amish carved a knowing look into the fisherman's eyes. Were he to raise those eyes now, he'd see 120 solar panels targeting the southwestern sky. Lately, owner Ken Brown has had a similar knowing look about him: as if he was on to something.

“We've got to start somewhere,” he said, “for our future, and for our children's future.”

This 30kw photovoltaic system has been installed by Oyster Creek Electric/Solar Options. It is supplying power to the CMP grid, lessening the load and strain on the overtaxed power line feeding the peninsula. This is Boothbay’s second large PV system to go online in a month. Others will follow shortly, and this pilot project has just been extended.

GridSolar, a Portland based company, successfully petitioned the PUC, to allow this pilot project to take place. Their idea seems so logical, yet it's quite revolutionary. Utilities from around the country are watching. If more power is needed on the Boothbay peninsula, they reasoned, it should be made on the peninsula. The cost of a sufficient power line upgrade has been estimated at $18 million. The power company is, instead, subsidizing these installations at a small fraction of this cost.

Other measures, ranging from the recently completed Efficiency Maine LED light bulb program (Brown’s has replaced 500 bulbs) to replacing outmoded air conditioners with high efficiency split-phase heat pumps, will further lessen the very real threat of blackouts in July and August. Brown's Wharf hopes to install close to 100 of these units this fall. This project will have an even more favorable impact on the grid in Boothbay than its solar array. GridSolar will pay Brown Brother's Inc. accordingly, with a monthly check for 36 months. Brown’s substantial investments in these projects will be paid back within seven years. The photovoltaic array will still be making electricity in 30 years.

Al Monaco of Oyster Creek Electric, and solar contractor Steve Teel, began putting these proposals together for Brown's Wharf this past spring.

Dan Baty, Al Monaco’s apprentice, and Richard Green, a local contractor, had been prepping the roof Monaco and Teel for over a week. Kinne Stires rounded out the crew when over 70 panels were placed. Owner Tim Brown has worked alongside everyone every step of the way, from the planning stages to the actual installation. His focus has now shifted to the air-conditioner project.

The Boothbay Pilot Project, as mentioned, has been extended until early next summer. Residents of this peninsula find themselves in a unique and enviable position. They can invest in this mature, dependable technology for much less than those living elsewhere.

Monaco, of Oyster Creek Electric/Solar Options, can be reached at 207-557-3059. Teel can be reached at 802-291-2679. They can also be reached at ocreek@lincoln.midcoast.com or s.steelvt@yahoo.com