Press Release

Landry/French Completes Construction on Maine’s First Net-Positive Energy Academic Building

The Historic Good Will-Hinckley campus recently celebrated the opening of Maine’s first fully solar powered, net-positive academic facility, the Charles E. Moody School. Landry/French Construction completed the renovations and additions to the 110-year-old building, creating a highly energy efficient and sustainable environment while at the same time retaining its character and defining features.

Two hundred and sixty-seven (267) photovoltaic panels installed on the building are expected to deliver 91,000 kWh of power. The Moody School will use approximately 77,000 kWh annually, leaving a “net positive” of 14,000 kWh of clean, renewable power.  This will offset the energy needs of adjacent greenhouses and other facilities on campus. The energy cost savings is estimated at $1.3 million over 25 years.

Student lab in the Charles E Moody School.

Efficiency Maine, a statewide program to promote more efficient use of electricity and reduce energy costs, awarded nearly $30,000 in incentives to install the energy-efficient HVAC system and LED lighting. The energy usage level is approximately 30% less than a conventional building.

The level of excitement from students has been fun to see.” said Interim President Rob Moody.  “Our students are now in the unique position of learning about natural sciences and renewable energy while sitting in classrooms powered by the sun.

The Moody School is a contributing structure to the Hinckley Good Will Home Historic District. Today the building houses the Maine Academy of Natural Sciences (MeANS), the state’s first charter school. The expansion added 7,200 sq. ft to the existing 16,150-sf building.  The project will allow MeANS to expand its current enrollment from 125 to 200 students. The state-of-the-art features support the school’s focus on science, sustainability education and hands-on learning.