Nassau solar-powered compactors installed

County Executive Edward Mangano has announced the installation of 11 BigBelly solar receptacles at various locations in Nassau. The software-controlled receptacles are part of an effort to reduce waste collection costs and resolve overflow issues. The units also act as compactors and hold five times as much garbage as regular garbage cans.

The compactors are powered by solar energy and use Web-based technology to alert maintenance staff when they are full. Green, yellow and red lights indicate the current capacity of the receptacle.

The compactors are at locations such as the county courthouse, Supreme Court and the departments of social services and health.

“It is my mission to transform Nassau into America’s leading county in safety, prosperity and the nurturing of family life and a clean and safe environment is central to our success,” Mangano said in a news release.

BigBelly Solar is a Massachusetts-based company specializing in waste management and recycling solutions. Founded in 2003, BigBelly Solar has more than 800 customers in the United States and 30 other countries.