Tucson goes solar at several locations

Jun 22 - Arizona Daily Star

$11.6M power system expected to produce revenue, energy saving

The city of Tucson is in the process of turning on new solar photovoltaic power systems at seven city-owned sites.

The power systems are part of an effort by city officials to make municipal facilities more energy efficient while generating revenues.

The rooftop and carport solar power systems, developed by SPG Solar and interconnected by Tucson Electric Power Co., are expected to generate a combined $6.2 million in revenue within the next 25 years, according to a city news release. Additional savings will come from lower electric bills in the future.

The city invested $11.2 million in the project, paid for with New Clean Renewable Energy Bonds. An additional $450,000 came from a grant from former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords' solar initiative.

The power systems will come online at the following sites:

* Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave.

* Miller-Golf Links Library, 9640 E. Golf Links Road.

* Patrick K. Hardesty Multi-Service Center, 1100 S. Alvernon Way.

* Randolph Center, 200 S. Alvernon Way.

* The Tucson Police Department Crime Lab at the Westside Police Service Center, 1310 W. Miracle Mile.

* Two locations at the Thomas O. Price Service Center, 4004 S. Park Ave.

Most of the power systems are operating except for the locations at the Price Service Center, which are expected to be in operation later this month, said Doug Crockett, city of Tucson energy manager.

Also, the ground-mounted portion of the system at the TPD crime lab is in the design phase, Crockett said.

The power generated at each site will offset, on average, 55 percent of the electricity used at each location.

Crews began working on the project in November.

The project produced 60 green jobs during construction, along with internships for two University of Arizona students.

City officials expect the 2.3-megawatt system to produce nearly 4 million kilowatt hours in the first year, which is equivalent to powering 350 homes annually.

Contact reporter Jamar Younger at jyounger@azstarnet.com or 573- 4115.

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Originally published by JAMAR YOUNGER, ARIZONA DAILY STAR.