Veolia and Nautilus Solar recently launched a 6.5MW solar installation called the "Exeter Mail" in Exeter, Rhode Island.

This solar power plant is one of three solar power plants that supply renewable energy to the Rhode Island power grid, aiming to provide a water and electricity credit for the local housing authority, thereby reducing its operating costs and ultimately lowering energy prices for public housing residents. The project was announced to start construction in 2021 and has now been completed. Three solar power plants are all supplying green energy to the Rhode Island power grid.

The collaboration between PHARI, Nautilus, and Veolia will include multiple public housing management agencies in a renewable energy contract. The Exeter Post Power Plant project is the largest of the three projects signed by the Housing Authority.

The total power generation of these three projects exceeds 13 megawatts. The electricity market value generated by the three projects will be allocated to nine housing authorities in Rhode Island (Providence, North Providence, Newport, Cranston, Smithfield, Warwick, Warren, Bristol, and Lincoln) in the form of utility bill credit lines. These credit limits will generate discounts related to current electricity supply prices, thereby reducing the operating budget of the housing management bureau. The energy costs in the region are among the highest in the country, and taxpayers and public housing households will benefit from it.

These solar power plants are mainly located in Exeter and Smithfield towns, and are expected to save over $35 million in energy costs over the next 20 years.

Nautilus is responsible for overseeing the development, licensing, and construction of solar installations. The company will now be responsible for the continuous management, maintenance, and performance of the entire project lifecycle. With its profound knowledge in decarbonization, power optimization, and solar power generation, Veolia has been selected by PHARI to serve as the buyer's agent in cooperation with the housing management department, responsible for managing procurement work, providing technical consulting, and managing complex supplier selection processes.

Karin Hamel, President and CEO of Veolia's Sustainable Industries and Buildings business, stated, "Veolia is honored to contribute to this transformative solar project that not only fully harnesses the power of renewable energy, but also directly supports the well-being of thousands of low-income households in Rhode Island. This project aligns with Veolia's GreenUp strategy. Producing local low-carbon energy is a key growth driver for accelerating ecological transformation. This project is a perfect example of using green energy for public welfare.