Gloucester Daily Times Editorial Page
Published: September 14, 2006 12:00 am

Cape Ann is not going to solve the country's energy problems. But the region is doing its part, showing some encouraging initiatives to use renewable energy in its corner of the world.
In Gloucester, the new solar-powered trash compactor known as Big Belly is now in place on Stacy Boulevard, the scenic harbor walkway. The unit, which weighs about 400 pounds, can store three times the amount of trash as a conventional barrel, by crushing 180 gallons into about 46 gallons. Sensors inside the unit, powered by solar energy, trigger the compacting mechanism and also signal when the unit needs to be emptied.

It comes with a vastly bigger price tag than a conventional trash barrel, too, about $4,700. But that cost was covered by residents who signed up for National Grid's GreenUp program by agreeing to add a few dollars to their monthly electric bill. That money was matched by the Clear Energy Choice program.

And it has already been shown to be effective in nearby Manchester, where officials say a Big Belly at Singing Beach has eliminated their trash overflow problems.

And on the renewable front, the Rockport School Committee and Department of Public Works have agreed to erect a 164-foot wind data collection tower near the high school softball field. The yearlong study will let the town know if a wind turbine would be a worthwhile energy investment.

The chances of that look good. According to Sally Wright, of the University of Massachusetts Renewable Energy Research Laboratory, Rockport has some of the most favorable wind speeds in the state.

Of course, there are concerns besides wind speed, noise and aesthetics among them. But with a proposed tower more than 900 feet from the closest residence, officials are hopeful that they will get community support.

Besides saving on the local energy bill - something every community would welcome - it will also offer the chance for students to study wind power right in the school's backyard.