Worcester recognized for green initiatives

(NECN: Katie Daly, Worcester, Mass.) - Environment Massachusetts visited Worcester Wednesday. It’s a group that wants municipalities across the state to start constructing more energy efficient buildings. So far the group has found Worcester is ahead of most cities when it comes to green initiatives. Worcester has implemented a number of clean energy projects. This year Holy Name high school installed a wind turbine on its campus. School officials expect that project will eliminate their annual electric bill of 20 thousand dollars. Worcester State College is currently installing the largest solar panel project in the city. The project is expected to pay for itself in 15 years, but its not just school officials that are saving money through green projects. Some affordable housing units in Worcester are also thought of as green structures. Julie Jacobson is the assistant city manager for economic and neighborhood development. She says the city is also evaluating 100 city owned properties as new possibilities for green buildings. Members of Environment Massachusetts are hoping Worcester will serve as a model for other cities and towns.