CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts "flipped the switch" on the new solar panel system on its facility Wednesday morning. This installation on Carew Street in Chicopee includes panels on the rooftop of the building and a solar canopy covering part of the parking lot. Pittsfield solar company announces $2 million capital raise with relaunch Nancy Robinson, Senior Director of Operations at the Food Bank, says it's all possible due to federal grants and support from U.S. Senators Edward Markey and Elizabeth Warren. Thanks to their support, these state-of-the-art solar panels will significantly reduce the building's carbon footprint and fulfill 100% of their demanding electricity needs. "We have over 9,000 square feet of refrigeration and cooling here in our 63,000 square foot facility, and that's 24/7," said Robinson. "It draws a lot of electricity, and we knew that was going to be a large draw on the City of Chicopee." Chicopee Mayor John Vieau, along with the Food Bank's Executive Director and a representative from Senator Markey's office, thanked the Food Bank for its impact in helping to feed people in Hampden, Hampshire, Berkshire, and Franklin counties. They hope these new panels will further increase the reach of this new facility. Local News Headlines Advocacy groups threaten lawsuit for the legislature Proposed lithium battery energy storage facility in Westfield sparks concerns from city councilors Officials warn of holiday tree and candle fire risks Experts warn ice is not yet safe for winter activities WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.