Solar News
WESTBORO— After seeing the cost of electricity to operate his carwash climb to $25,000 a year, Bruce Forrestall knew he had to take action if he was going to stay in business.
Mr. Forrestall, owner of Car Wash & Detailing of Westboro for the past 18 years, has always used a well for his water and had a reclaiming system that allowed him to recycle water for a month before discarding it. In recent years he installed more efficient pumps that used less water, chemicals and electricity, and switched to efficient lighting. But he still needed more savings.
“It was time. They tell me I’ll see a 20 percent savings. I’m hoping I’ll get 25 percent,” Mr. Forrestall said about the recent installation of a 19,000-watt solar electric system at the carwash, at 126 Turnpike Road (Rt. 9 eastbound). The 20 percent cost savings per year is equal to the cost of energy to power 165 homes for one day. The savings will allow the project to pay for itself in five years. Afterward, the solar system will produce free electricity for the carwash business for more than 25 years.
By Elaine Thompson TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF
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