Solar Panels, Charge Stations Coming to Westport Train Station

A solar paneled roof and four electric car charge stations will soon be installed at the Saugatuck Metro-North eastbound train station, a project that will cost Westport nothing.

The Board of Selectman unanimously approved a 15-year contract last week with ECI Energy, Inc., the company that will construct, install and maintain the solar panels.

The and up to 20 electric car charging stations, according to Westport Building Official Steve Smith.

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"The town's obligation is to buy electricity that’s generated at an approximate 30 percent savings,” Smith said.

Westport is currently paying two different electricity rates at the station, while ECI is offering a flat 16-cent per kilowatt fee.

“It’s a better deal for us,” Smith said, noting that ECI’s fee is substantially lower than the current electricity cost at the train station.