Dec 28 2010
The Peralta Community College District has feted the installation of a 1.2 MW solar energy system at Merritt College. The solar installation incorporates efficient power generating solar panels that will meet nearly 42% of the college’s annual power requirements.
The college district formulated the design of the project and the placement of the panels in consultation with the faculty of the college, district and on site employees along with the able assistance provided by Chevron Energy Solutions and Consultants. The project incorporates around 4,600 ground fixed solar PV panels exclusively designed to occupy less space over the hillside of the college near its football field. The solar system erected without affecting the panoramic views of the college has incorporated a solar energy display at the Students Center to showcase the production of solar power by the system. The installed solar system will allow the college to save around $16.8 million during the 25 years life time of the project in addition to the monetary incentives amounting to $1.6 million received from the state for the project. The college district has entered into an agreement with PG&E to trade the extra power produced through its Net-Metering program.
In addition to providing savings on installation and through incentives, the solar panels installed over the carport will provide lighting to the carport to benefit the students with lighting and protection during extreme weather conditions. The canopy like solar structure erected over the carport is designed to withstand wind speeds up to 100 mph. The power generated from the system can be equated to offsetting of nearly 380 tons of carbon discharges every year.
Source: http://www.Peralta.edu