In a groundbreaking renewable energy collaboration, a coalition of higher education institutions, healthcare systems, and nonprofit organizations in Greater Boston and the North Shore has formed the Consortium for Climate Solutions to advance carbon-free energy goals. Through two virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) with Apex Clean Energy, the Consortium is adding 408 MW of renewable energy to the grid via the Big Elm Solar project in Texas and the Bowman Wind project in North Dakota. Together, these projects will generate clean power equivalent to the annual energy use of 130,000 U.S. homes over the 15-year contracts.
The Big Elm Solar project (200 MW), operational since 2024, and the Bowman Wind project (208 MW), slated for 2026, will not only reduce reliance on fossil fuels but also support community development. These projects are expected to generate $64 million in tax revenue, create 750 construction jobs, and provide $100 million in income for local farmers and landowners.
Collaborative Leadership
The Consortium is anchored by Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and Mass General Brigham (MGB), with additional support from PowerOptions, an energy group serving nonprofits and public entities. Members include Boston Children’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Tufts University, the City of Cambridge, and the Museum of Fine Arts, among others. Facilitated by climate solutions provider 3Degrees, this public-private partnership creates a scalable model for other organizations to accelerate climate action.
Scaling Clean Energy Access
By pooling resources, the Consortium lowers barriers for nonprofits and enables large-scale renewable energy development. The VPPAs allow members to invest in utility-scale projects outside their immediate region, decarbonizing power grids and advancing national clean energy goals.
MIT’s Executive Vice President Glen Shor highlighted the initiative’s impact: “Catalyzing these large-scale renewable projects is a vital part of our efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Partnering with local organizations amplifies our collective impact.”
Harvard’s Executive Vice President Meredith Weenick emphasized collaboration: “This effort not only accelerates the transition to a cleaner grid but also demonstrates how diverse organizations can join forces to address climate change.”
Community Health and Equity
The Consortium also addresses the intersection of climate resilience and public health. MGB’s CFO, Niyum Gandhi, noted the benefits of clean energy: “Climate resiliency is essential to health. This initiative helps reduce our environmental impact while improving community well-being, particularly for underserved populations.”
A Model for Bold Climate Action
The Consortium’s innovative approach sets a new standard for advancing renewable energy adoption. Apex Clean Energy CEO Ken Young remarked, “Big Elm Solar and Bowman Wind are milestones in renewable energy procurement, showcasing how collaboration can drive meaningful climate solutions.”
The projects support regional climate goals in Boston and Cambridge while promoting a healthier planet and equitable energy access nationwide. Through collective action, the Consortium demonstrates the transformative power of partnerships in tackling the climate crisis.
