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The purpose-built life science building in the Massachusetts city is equipped with solar and storage system
April 22, 2024 | Staff Reporter | USA | Facilities Management
Clean energy transition company Catalyze has announced the operation of a solar and storage project installed at 66 Galen in Watertown, Massachusetts. The purpose-built life science building is owned in a joint venture with real estate companies Davis and Boston Development Group (BDP).
Catalyze finances, builds, owns, and operates solar, battery storage, and electric vehicle charging systems for commercial and industrial customers. 66 Galen Street is a 224,106 square-foot Class A life science building featuring modern, purpose-built offices and laboratories. The LEED Gold certified facility draws power from its 252 kWdc solar and 125 kW storage system, and also provides a series of EV charging stations featuring 15 ports.
By prioritising clean energy amenities, ownership recognises that sustainability is not only an environmental necessity but also a key factor in attracting businesses and residents to vibrant locations like Watertown.
Jared Haines, CEO of Catalyze
“We’re thrilled to bring this project online, marking another milestone in our commitment to innovative development,” said Jared Haines, CEO of Catalyze. “The completion of the 66 Galen facility underscores Davis’ and Boston Development Group’s dedication to creating modern, sustainable spaces that elevate communities. By prioritising clean energy amenities, ownership recognises that sustainability is not only an environmental necessity but also a key factor in attracting businesses and residents to vibrant locations like Watertown.”
The project supports the building’s ability to meet requirements under Watertown’s Climate and Energy Plan, which calls for 50% solar roof coverage on new and substantially renovated buildings over 10,000 square feet. To support this project, Catalyze participated in the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (Smart) programme, which offers incentives for residential and commercial solar projects throughout Massachusetts.
“The addition of new clean energy solutions such as solar, battery storage and EV charging, are a few of the many important steps we took to differentiate the site from others in the market, furthering our commitment to our ESG goals, and ensuring maximum value for Davis’ investors in the long term,” said Cappy Daume, Chief Portfolio Management Officer at Davis.
In addition to the new solar panels, battery storage and EV charging provided by Catalyze, 66 Galen Street is equipped with several features chosen intentionally to enhance the building’s sustainability and climate efficiency.
These include the durable, heat resistant exterior material using natural, 100% recyclable terracotta tiles with a low-e coating that maximises the building’s insulative properties and minimises solar heat gain; high-efficiency LED and self-dimming lighting to minimise light pollution; a variable-volume air handler system that creates a 19% reduction in energy cost compared to buildings of a similar size; and significant water conservation infrastructure which directs excess rainwater to green space.
