City of Springfield Saves $800,000+ Through Community Solar

The opportunity

As Springfield’s electricity advisor since 2016, Tradition Energy has supported the City’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.

The City of Springfield sought to build on that commitment by expanding its use of renewable energy while continuing to manage electricity costs responsibly. Springfield turned to Tradition to identify solutions that could advance its environmental goals while delivering measurable financial value for the municipality.

With Massachusetts offering programs designed to accelerate renewable energy adoption, Springfield had an opportunity to participate in community solar without installing generation directly on City property. The challenge was identifying the right approach and structuring a strategy that could deliver both long-term sustainability benefits and meaningful savings for taxpayers.

Analysis

Tradition evaluated Springfield’s energy needs, sustainability objectives, and available renewable energy opportunities to develop a procurement strategy that balanced environmental progress with long-term financial benefits. The analysis identified community solar and participation in Massachusetts’ SMART program as an opportunity to support local renewable generation while reducing the City’s electricity costs.

Tradition assessed available renewable energy options to determine which solutions best aligned with Springfield’s electricity portfolio and sustainability objectives. The evaluation focused on opportunities that could provide measurable economic benefits without requiring significant capital investment or onsite infrastructure.

Tradition identified the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program as a strategic opportunity for Springfield. Through the program, the City could participate in community solar by subscribing to off-site solar generation, supporting the development of renewable energy without installing solar directly on municipal property.

After analyzing the City’s needs, Tradition developed a procurement strategy designed to maximize the financial and environmental benefits of community solar. The approach provided Springfield with access to clean, locally generated energy while creating immediate and long-term savings with no upfront cost.

The Result:
Renewable Energy with Long-Term Financial Impact

Millions in Long-Term Budget Savings

Tradition advised Springfield on a renewable energy purchase projected to eliminate a minimum of $3.7 million from the municipality’s energy budget over 20 years.

Immediate Electricity Savings

Springfield’s continued participation in community solar enabled the City to reduce retail electricity costs by more than $800,000 while realizing immediate savings with no upfront cost.

Expanded Renewable Energy Commitment

Participation in community solar and the SMART program allowed Springfield to support clean, local energy generation while advancing its long-term sustainability goals for the community.

Client Testimonials

My energy advisors are top-notch representatives of Tradition Energy. We have grown to view them as actual employees of our organization. The relationship has become one of trust and respect.

Director of Procurement,
Municipality

Our Energy Advisor has always been on top of things as our first line of communication. He and the team at Tradition Energy are a tremendous asset and partner to us.

Account Manager,
Municipality

Tradition Energy staff have been knowledgeable, courteous, and helpful. They respond promptly to questions and requests, and consistently provide useful information and services. Tradition is especially helpful to reference when staff members have questions regarding the technical ins and outs of the energy sector. Our experience has been extremely positive overall!

Energy Specialist,
Municipality

We thoroughly appreciate the personal service received each time we price our commodities. The insight provided by Tradition was extremely helpful as we moved through our budget process. Tradition staff are always professional, responsive, and patient with each engagement. It is all greatly appreciated!

Business Administrator,
Municipality

My energy advisor is wonderful and so responsive!

Director of Facilities,
Social Services Non Profit

My Tradition Energy Advisor is wonderful to work with, info provided is accurate and timely.

General Manager,
Texas Municipality