Patricia C. Donohue, president of Mercer County Community College, issued the following statement in response to an inquiry from the WW-P News:
Mercer County Community College has been completely transparent and open about its plan for the solar farm, which was announced in September, 2011. Two public meetings have been held with local residents, during which the college presented the proposal in its entirety.
There is huge value to this project. It meets New Jersey’s goals to reduce carbon emissions on a plot of land that is largely removed from public view. The grounds will remain a permeable surface to allow for drainage. New foliage will be added as a barrier for the homeowners whose view may be impacted. Significant funds will be saved on energy usage, estimated at between $750,000 to $1 million.
The farm will provide learning opportunities for several of our programs, including Solar/Energy Technology, Engineering Science, and the newly developed Sustainability degree programs.
While residents have suggested placing the solar panels on campus roofs, mechanical equipment is located on the roofs of buildings throughout the college, making that an unfeasible alternative.
Additionally, the project has been approved by the Mercer County Improvement Authority (MCIA). And according to our legal counsel, MCCC is under no obligation to go before the West Windsor Township Zoning and Planning Boards, as has been suggested by several residents
