One of the largest solar power projects in Massachusetts is under construction on the property of a former coal-burning power plant in Holyoke.
More than 17,000 solar panels are being installed in the shadow of the smokestack of the former Mount Tom Power Station.
Holyoke Gas & Electric has signed a deal to purchase the power which manager James Lavelle said it will help the municipal power company maintain some of the lowest electric rates in the region.
"This along with some other solar projects that will come on line in early 2017 will mean over 75 percent of our electric portfolio will be renewable energy and over 98 percent of our energy will be carbon-free," said Lavelle.
The nearly 6 megawatt solar farm should come on line in January.
The old power plant and its landmark smokestack will be torn down next spring.
