By Gary Thomas
Chevron Energy Solutions and the Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) has announced that they have launched the solar power and energy efficiency project during a briefing event, conducted with the community at the headquarters of MCOE, situated on Blanco Circle in Salinas.
New solar canopies installed by Chevron Energy Solutions grace the parking lot at Monterey County Office of Education in Salinas, Calif.
Community members, which included education representatives, business leaders and elected officials were attracted towards this event. Guests from Santa Cruz and San Jose participated in order to learn on how it was possible for MCOE to minimize its overall energy requirement by 75%, while yielding $2.2 million as savings that is anticipated during the initial 25 years of this solar project.
According to Monterey County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Nancy Kotowski stated that they are utilizing the solar energy to help the schools. This solar project allows them invest more for the future of their students and protects taxpayer dollars.
The community was led by Chevron Energy Solutions, the Monterey County Board of Education and Monterey County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Nancy Kotowski for a 30 minute briefing, which received appreciation from Luis Alejo, California State Assembly Member, and Sam Farr, US Congressman.
Ground-breaking of this solar project was done during February 2012 with minimum investment. PG&E granted a solar rebate of around $500,000 to MCOE, which also secures $881,000 as federal grant in order to offset the price per kWh.
The agency experienced minimal fiscal impact due to the overall system price, with the additional funding. The 630 kW solar canopy system is the most prominent visual aspect of the project. A new energy management system for controlling an HVAC, lighting and water system, a new energy-efficient hot water boiler are also a part of the scope of the project.
The County Office of Education will showcase the success of the project for the 24 school districts, located all over the county.
Source: http://www.chevronenergy.com/