Ridgefield-based PowerPlay Solar Development, which finances and builds solar energy systems for schools and universities, has reportedly flicked the switch on a two-megawatt, nine-acre photovoltaic solar plant at Berkshire School in Sheffield, Mass.

According to a company release, the project is currently “the largest operating solar facility of its kind at any school or college in New England.”

"Committing to this solar project is a significant statement by Berkshire School on environmental stewardship,” said Steven Levine, senior development partner at PowerPlay Solar Development, in the release. “It's been exciting for our team to develop this impressive solar power plant in support of the School's sustainability and energy goals.”

The ground-mounted system is reportedly composed of 8,332 high performance crystalline silicon solar panels manufactured in the U.S. by SolarWorld.

According to the company’s website, the solar plant will generate approximately 45 percent of the Berkshire School’s electricity needs on an annual basis, thus helping it reach its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2016.