California Water Agencies Reaping Benefits of Recent Solar Deployments

Association of California Water Agency and PowerLight Solar Power Systems — Lowering Energy Costs While Providing Clean Generation

By deploying solar power, ACWA members are reducing overall electrical energy costs, enhancing energy management practices, and furthering sustainability. Last year, several ACWA members purchased significant solar electric power systems.

The first major ACWA solar array, a 765 kW solar electric system, was installed at the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) in Southern California, closely followed by a second system of 523 kW at the Sonoma County Water Agency. In October 2006, West Basin Water Recycling Plant in El Segundo will install a total of 590 kW among three new solar arrays.

These solar systems were furnished and are maintained by PowerLight Corporation, an ACWA-preferred partner. PowerLight designs and builds turnkey solar power systems that are both mounted onto existing rooftops as well as structures that shelter vehicles, equipment and other storage areas. PowerLight also specializes in providing solar tracking systems that maximize energy production.

As more ACWA members commission solar electric systems, California policy makers are equally encouraging implementation of energy efficiency upgrades to complement their generation of solar power. PowerLight, stands ready to deliver comprehensive energy efficiency services alongside solar to ACWA members, to optimize energy usage in a clean, efficient and economical manner.

“Solar electric power, combined with implementing energy efficiency solutions is the future of energy and facility management,” noted Phil Miller, the Director of Engineering at the EVMWD. “With solar electric generation, we reduce our overall energy costs, and in particular, reduce our purchases of expensive, peak energy.”

The Sonoma County Water Agency has also made a significant commitment to solar power by installing a large solar array at its headquarters. “Sonoma County Water Agency is delighted that we’re deploying clean, sustainable solar power,” noted SCWA Director [and Sonoma County Supervisor] Tim Smith.

“It’s vital that utilities and water districts continue to expand our use of renewable energy resources such as solar power to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the overall health and quality of life in our community, while saving our ratepayers money,” noted West Basin MWD General Manager Rich Nagel.

For more information on any of the ACWA Preferred Providers or the ACWA Preferred Provider Program, contact Marcia Wulff, ACWA’s Partnership Program Coordinator, at 916.441.4545, or marciaw@acwa.com.