Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at 4:00:25 PM - by Nate Lew

Solar energy resources are continuing to make inroads in states not commonly associated with bright sunlight and hot weather, such as Vermont.

This week, Central Vermont Public Service (CVPS) announced that it proposal for a 50-kilowatt photovoltaic array had been approved by state officials to be built in the city of Rutland. The project is also expected to be helpful for local technical students, who will be well-positioned to learn trades that will help land green jobs.

"Combined with a local hydroelectric station, Glen Station, which sits just across the road, the solar project will provide a working classroom for students interested in how energy can be produced through clean, renewable sources," said CVPS president Bob Young.

The project in Rutland is expected to have 265 photovoltaic panels, each about 3 by 5 feet wide and mounted on 33 arrays. Construction is set to begin this fall.

According to CVPS, it is also working to research new biofuel resources as well as other solar sites and was also the first utility in the world to put wind power on the grid in 1941.