Washington Gas Energy Systems Inc. announced it has signed a contract with Western University of Health Sciences to build, own and operate a 672-kilowatt solar array that will provide renewable energy for the university in Pomona, Calif. The installation will consist of a roof-mounted system composed of 2,688 solar panels affixed to three buildings throughout the campus, and a carport system with solar panels located at one of the parking areas on campus.
The facility will be owned and operated by Washington Gas Energy Systems under a 20-year power purchase agreement. Green Energy Group LLC developed the project, which will be completed in October 2013. Conergy engineered the project and will manage procurement and construction.
“WesternU welcomes this opportunity to help the environment, reduce the impact of our operations, and lower our electrical costs,” said Thomas G. Fox, PhD, senior vice president at Western University of Health Sciences. “Solar panels offer a simple solution, one that makes a strong statement about the importance of a greener planet for a healthier life.”
The installation is expected to produce 1,110 MWh of solar energy per year, contributing significantly to WesternU’s electricity needs. Upon completion, the solar array will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions equal to recycling more than 293 tons of waste, instead of sending it to a landfill, or taking approximately 163 passenger cars off the road for one year.
“WesternU not only promotes health by educating graduate students in the medical field, it is now improving air quality by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through solar electricity,” said Sanjiv Mahan, vice president of business development for Washington Gas Energy Systems. “This collaboration with the university, Green Energy Group, and Conergy is sure to serve as an example for other institutes of higher education with goals to reduce their environmental footprints.”
“WesternU is joining many other universities that are making the effort to reduce their impact through green energy,” said William DePhillipo, member of Green Energy Group. “Our team is committed to developing a high-quality system that furthers our shared mission to drive investment in clean energy.”
— Solar Builder magazine
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