Brown University Achieves Major Sustainability Milestone with Rhode Island’s Largest Solar Project
Dry Bridge Solar Project Powers Two-Thirds of Brown’s Campus Electricity, Accelerating Net-Zero Goals
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Brown University has taken a significant leap toward its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040. With the launch of the Dry Bridge solar project in North Kingstown, one of Rhode Island’s largest renewable energy installations, Brown is now offsetting nearly two-thirds of its on-campus electricity usage with clean, locally generated solar power.
The 240-acre Dry Bridge solar facility, situated on the site of a former gravel pit, is a groundbreaking renewable energy development. It is projected to produce a staggering 66.8 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, making it one of the state’s highest-capacity contiguous solar projects. Brown University serves as the project’s sole off-taker, securing renewable energy credits that solidify its ownership of the green energy produced.
A Milestone in Brown’s Sustainability Journey
The completion of Dry Bridge, first envisioned by Brown in 2018, is a transformative step in the University’s sustainability strategy. President Christina H. Paxson emphasized its significance:
“Dry Bridge is a transformative milestone for clean energy in the region and signals a significant step toward Brown’s net-zero goals. This project underscores the University’s dedication to global climate solutions and combating climate change.”
Brown is now primarily powering its 231 campus buildings with renewable energy, setting a benchmark for institutions across the nation. The solar initiative complements the University’s efforts to transition away from fossil fuels and its leadership in environmental research and innovation.
Overcoming Challenges for a Cleaner Future
The development of Dry Bridge was not without hurdles. As one of the state’s largest solar projects, it required ingenuity, collaboration, and determination to navigate unique infrastructure requirements and regulatory delays. The efforts paid off, thanks to a partnership between Brown, MN8 Energy (the project’s operator), and Providence-based Energy Development Partners.
Frank Epps, CEO of Energy Development Partners, lauded Brown’s commitment:
“Brown was a phenomenal partner, staying dedicated throughout the entire process. This project will serve as a model for future large-scale renewable energy initiatives in Rhode Island.”
With final approval from ISO New England, the regional electricity transmission authority, on November 19, Dry Bridge is now fully operational and contributing to Rhode Island’s renewable energy goals.
Supporting Statewide Clean Energy Goals
Rhode Island leaders have celebrated Dry Bridge as a critical step toward meeting the state’s ambitious climate targets, including a 100% renewable energy grid by 2033. Chris Kearns, acting commissioner of the state’s Office of Energy Resources, recognized its impact:
“Brown University’s solar project plays an important role in helping Rhode Island achieve its renewable energy and emissions reduction goals under the Act on Climate.”
Dry Bridge features four co-located solar installations that generate 40 megawatts of alternating current, enough to power thousands of homes or, in this case, a major portion of Brown’s campus operations.
Looking Ahead
As Jessica Berry, assistant vice president for sustainability and resiliency at Brown, highlighted, Dry Bridge is just one piece of the University’s broader sustainability vision:
“Projects like this are critical to advancing the clean energy transition and powering the economy of the future. Dry Bridge not only reinforces Brown’s commitment to sustainability but also advances Rhode Island’s goal for a zero-emission grid by 2033.”
With its unwavering focus on renewable energy, Brown University is paving the way for institutions nationwide to embrace sustainability, proving that collaboration and innovation can drive meaningful climate action.
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