MBTA panel OKs use of solar energy at parking facilities

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's (MBTA) fiscal and management control board earlier this week approved an agreement to install solar energy generating equipment at 37 parking facilities.

The 20-year lease agreement with Omni-Navitas Holdings LLC is expected to generate $1.9 million in base rent in the first year, with a 3 percent annual increase.

Over the course of the lease, the MBTA could realize $55 million in income and savings, agency officials said in a press release.

"The MBTA has undertaken an important opportunity to leverage its parking facilities to reduce costs, increase own-source revenue and support the commonwealth's greater greenhouse gas reduction targets and clean energy goals," said Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker.

Panel installation will take two years. The facilities include 28 surface lots and nine garages.

The MBTA also seeks to promote renewable energy — including solar photovoltaic facilities — on its property for its own use.

The agency is the largest electricity consumer in the state.