FALMOUTH – Falmouth voters, by a more than two-thirds marging, have approved plans to facilitate three solar projects proposed for the former site of the Cape Cod Country Club.
Under the terms of the deal, approved at the Falmouth Representative Town Meeting, Puresky Energy would donate 137 acres to the town and enter into a long-term lease to develop and manage solar energy facilities.
Project estimates indicate it would produce enough energy to power thousands of area homes and businesses, while over 55 acres would be permanently conserved for the community as open space and wetlands, backed by a $414,000 commitment to water quality support by PureSky.
Conservation efforts would include tree planting and restoration of pollinator meadows, while recreational opportunities would include walking trails, open field space, and a sledding hill.
Additionally, at least 15% of the solar energy produced would be provided at no cost to low- and moderate-income households, while 35% would be available to residents and businesses in the form of a 20% savings on their electric energy.
These benefits would complement the reduction of stormwater pollution associated with maintaining the prior golf course.
“With this approval, we are one step close to a cleaner, more sustainable future that also delivers real benefits to Falmouth residents,” said Dan Skizim, a Massachusetts resident and Senior Director of Development for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic at PureSky Energy.
“Our project,” he said, “ensures this land continues to serve the community, and we look forward to continuing our work with the Town on this project that truly is a win for Falmouth, its residents, and the environment.”
Moving forward, the projects will go to the Falmouth Planning Board for site plan review.
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