Solar Panels to Produce Power, Boost Local Economy
The City of Mesa announced an agreement with SolFocus, Inc.
to build 11 concentrating photovoltaic solar arrays, which will
help the City meet its energy needs, foster the development of
solar technologies and invest in Mesa's economy.
The next generation Concentrating Photovoltaic arrays will be
built alongside four existing demonstration arrays that are
located adjacent to the Red Mountain Softball Complex. These
arrays will interconnect with the Salt River Project's electric
distribution system meter that serves the park, providing 92
kilowatts of electricity. SolFocus has developed concentrator
photovoltaic (CPV) technology which combines high-efficiency
solar cells and advanced optics to provide solar energy
solutions which are scalable, dependable and capable of
delivering on the promise of clean, low-cost, renewable energy.
"By entering into a strategic alliance with a local business
like SolFocus, the City can help expand solar technology,
enhance the local economy and improve the quality of life for
the people of Mesa, Director of Economic Development Bill
Jabjiniak said. "Mesa is fortunate to have a business community
that works together, in partnership with City staff, to create a
sustainable environmental and economic future."
The City expects to save $16,000 to $20,000 per year, based upon
the rates SRP applies and the energy production from the arrays.
The projected cost of the project, $558,180, is contingent on
funds being granted by the Economic Stimulus program under the
Community Block Grant portion of the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act of 2009.
"This showcase of our SF-1100 Concentrator Photovoltaic
technology is an example of how business and government can work
collaboratively to provide significant benefits to the
community, both in terms of clean energy and economic
development," SolFocus CEO and President Mark Crowley said.
"The support of the City of Mesa has been important to SolFocus
as we have worked together to manufacture, test, and deploy this
innovative technology." The SolFocus CPV systems are
targeted for high solar resource regions such as Arizona.
For more information, visit on SolFocus, visit
http://www.solfocus.com.
Energy Resources Department
Address: PO Box 1466
Mesa, AZ 85211
Phone: 480-644-4444
(Non-Emergency)
Email
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday
7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Gas Odors or Emergencies:
480-644-4277 (GASS) or 911
(24 hours/7 days)
Electric Emergencies:
480-644-2266 or 911
(24 hours/7 days)
Report Utility Theft
Contacts:
Frank McRae, Department
Director