In the News
Newport Unveils Network of 25 BigBelly Solar Compactors
At an unveiling ceremony on Friday morning, Mayor Stephen C. Waluk announced what he referred to as a “great partnership” between Waste Management Inc., the City of Newport and BigBelly Solar, the provider of 25 trash compactors that are 100 percent solar-powered and self sustained.
“This is an example of innovation that will benefit our residents and our environment without any additional cost to the City,” Waluk said.
He said he believes Newport residents will benefit in three ways: reduced odor, fewer trucks on the road and a reduction of traffic issues.
“The BigBelly launch in Newport is a triumph in our mission to be a greener city,” said Waluk.
Jim Nocella, Public Sector Services Manager for Waste Management said the new compactors will cut the downtown collection requirements by half, providing a cost savings that enabled them to purchase the units. In return, the city has renewed the contract with Waste Management for two years.
Currently there are 250 receptacles throughout Newport which are collected twice daily. Twenty-five BigBelly compactors will replace 50 of the black metal barrels.
Connected to wireless routers, Waste Management will be able to monitor the compactors remotely, and only send out trucks when they are full.
