Nation Eyes Fresno's Clean and Green

 

FRESNO, CA, Mar 27, 2007 -- MARKET WIRE

 

The City of Fresno released today an overview of several initiatives that position the City as a leader in the areas of renewable energy and clean air vehicles. Fresno has earned national recognition from the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency for its aggressive approach to clean and green initiatives.

"There are external standards in place to ensure compliance," stated Mayor Alan Autry. "We have an internal set of goals that move beyond compliance toward commitment -- commitment to clean air initiatives and a commitment to being environmental stewards."

The City of Fresno's collaborative pursuit of protecting the environment has led to one of the largest clean fleets in California's Central Valley and an emphasis on the use of solar power. The City's 130 refuse trucks met the California Air Resource Board's (CARB) standard for the 2010 rule five years ahead of the deadline in 2005. The fleet now contains a total of 362 clear-air vehicles some of which are:

Much of the clean fleet is parked at the Municipal Service Center where the City of Fresno installed a 665 kWh solar panel system. There are a total of 4,557 panels installed on the flat roof canopies which serve as storage areas for buses and heavy equipment.

"This is a long term solution with short term benefits," stated Mayor Autry. "The project had a positive cash flow beginning in the first year of operation. Furthermore, long term the environmental impact is astounding."

Over the 30-year life of the solar panel system, smog (NOx) will be reduced by 98,560 lbs., acid rain (SOx) by 187,907 lbs., oil by 47,663 barrels and global warming (CO2) by 33,053,501lbs. The panels also produce the most energy during peak demand hours, decreasing the load on the local grids.

Fresno City Council President Henry T. Perea emphasized, "More and more cities across the nation are recognizing their role in protecting the environment. Fresno has demonstrated its leadership in this regard and is pushing a progressive agenda to utilize more and greener technologies. Our efforts over the last several years have placed Fresno on the map of environmental innovation, and we have just begun."

Along with the direct benefits, the project has generated interest in solar power throughout the state. The clean fleet, solar panel project and ongoing efforts both from inside and outside the walls of City Hall have positioned Fresno as an environmental leader in the Central Valley and the state.

Fresno, a culture of excellence where people get the best everyday.

SOURCE: City of Fresno

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