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.