Silicon Ranch, a developer and operator of utility-scale solar facilities, has partnered with Phoenix Solar, a global specialist in the design, construction, operation and maintenance of solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants, to install a 200 kW rooftop solar system at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee.
The rooftop solar project includes installation of 840 modules. At present, the construction is ongoing and is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2012.
Phoenix Solar will be responsible for engineering, procurement and construction of the solar system. The company will also provide operations and maintenance services to the facility in long-term basis. Silicon Ranch will operate the facility and distribute solar power to Tennessee Valley Authority. The proceeds will be shared with Second Harvest, who in turn will use them to decrease utility costs. The cost savings will be utilized to provide 480,000 extra meals to needy homes in Tennessee.
The collaboration project at the Tennessee–based food bank demonstrates how non-profit businesses can utilize the financial advantages of solar energy to counterbalance costs and offer higher levels of service to the society.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee’s CEO and President, Jaynee Day stated that they have been looking for opportunities to minimize the company’s expenses and utility costs for the last 18 months. The collaboration with Silicon Ranch and Phoenix Solar has offered a cost-effective solution through the use of renewable solar energy.
Source: http://www.phoenixsolar-group.com/