Las Vegas Plans City Solar Upgrade
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Solar carports are getting a fighting chance in Sin City. Funded primarily through the federal stimulus plan, the city of Las Vegas will erect $11 million worth of solar panels on carports and government buildings around town. Once complete the solar system’s could save the city up to $300,000 per year in energy costs.
The plan will begin with three separate solar installations, slated to begin next year. Of those three, the new Stupak Community Center will be the first to get panels. According to city estimates, the panels will provide between 10-30 percent of a building’s electricity, depending on usage and size of the array. When and if completed, the total electricity produced under Vegas’ plan will be equivalent to the total power needs of 170 homes.
The city claims a return on investment within 15 years. The first three solar arrays — at a cost of $1.2 million — will be paid for in grants from the stimulus bill. In addition to the Community Center mentioned above, panels will go on carports at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum and a local fire station.
Additional funding will come through a federal energy efficiency grant, city fund for green buildings, utility rebates, and a renewable energy bond program.
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Posted on July 22nd in Solar News by Dan.