Electric Cars Proposed for Town of Marion

With an agenda full of promising energy economies and alternative energy opportunities, Marion Energy Management Committee member Jennifer Francis presented another intriguing idea: electric cars for municipal use.

What Francis had discovered was a state program that provides incentives for eligible public and private entities to acquire electric vehicles, as well as the installation of charging stations, at reduced cost.

In speaking with Evan Melillo, administrative assistant to the Dartmouth town administrator, Francis learned the complexities of the state grant process. She told the committee members that Melillo was successful in completing the grant paperwork for Dartmouth. Since August, Dartmouth has been using several electric cars that have been largely paid for by the state incentive program. She said charging stations are part of the program, making use of the alternative energy vehicles more viable.

The committee members discussed which town departments might benefit from use of the compact car styles. They thought that such departments as the Board of Health, building inspector, and possibly the Police Department detectives might fit best for these economy automobiles. They also discussed the cost benefits of selling off older gas-powered vehicles versus paying for ongoing maintenance.

Francis will invite Melillo to a meeting in the next two months to learn more about the process. Melillo has offered his service to the town.

In other matters, committee member Eileen Marum reported on her efforts to draft a comprehensive energy management document that will contain such language as Marion’s intention to lead by example, to become a leader in energy management in the southeast. Furthermore, that town departments should measure energy-saving initiatives and all town departments should participate in the process are issues that are also addressed.

Member Bill Saltonstall brought the group up to date on the massive wind turbine project currently being constructed in Plymouth by Con Edison. He said Marion’s designated turbine would be completed in the coming weeks.

“It’s really very exciting and should result in 20 to 30 percent reduction to the town,” Saltonstall said. The cost savings will be realized by the municipality for its power consumption.

The committee is also looking at solar options, but await updated information on two solar projects – one proposed for Tucker Road in Rochester and one at the Benson Brook transfer station in Marion.

The next meeting of the Marion Energy Management Committee is scheduled for November 23 at 7:00 pm at the Marion Music Hall located at 164 Front Street.

By Marilou Newell

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