Boston Nature Center Awarded $189,000 Matching Challenge for Solar Energy Installations

MATTAPAN – Mass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary (BNC) has been awarded a matching challenge grant of $189,000 for the installation of a new 29.44 kW ground-mounted solar array. The challenge grant has been awarded by the Tern Foundation, which has supported numerous renewable energy projects across the state to help nonprofits transition to solar power.

This grant supports BNC’s Final Step to Net Zero Emissions Project for the solar array, with matching funds to be raised to support BNC’s Sustainable Community Entrance Project.

The Sustainable Community Entrance Project at the Boston Nature Center will create a more accessible, resilient, and welcoming entrance while using green infrastructure to manage stormwater and protect ecosystems. It will also expand environmental education and improve community access to nature for Boston residents.

Under the Tern Foundation’s TernSOLAR challenge grant program, funds are offered to dynamic nonprofits that engage creatively with their communities, and that also consider future generations and the natural environment in their strategic priorities and sustainability planning. 
“We’re thrilled to support Boston Nature Center’s vision of a net-zero sanctuary and to help transform that to reality,” say Tern Foundation’s Co-Directors Lisa Linnehan and Marianne Lampke. “Our TernSOLAR funding is designed to assist bold nonprofits to fully engage in the renewable energy movement, giving recipients the opportunity to have multi-dimensional impact. Most immediate, organizations save on electricity costs enabling them to reinvest the savings back into mission-driven programs. All while phasing out the use of fossil fuels to reduce overall carbon footprint. We applaud the spirited team at Boston Nature Center for their wonderful programs and environmental stewardship as they grow their sanctuary into an ever-evolving role model to the community.”

BNC’s Director Erin Kelly says the Tern Foundation’s support achieves multiple goals for Mass Audubon simultaneously.

“Matching challenges for our renewable energy initiatives, launched by community leaders like the Tern Foundation, energize our community not only to contribute financially, but also to act sustainably in their own homes and businesses,” Kelly said.

Anyone interested in supporting BNC’s Sustainable Community Entrance Project may contribute by contacting Keiosha Kennedy, Associate Director of Leadership Giving (Boston Nature Center) or 781-259-2323.