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DIA to set solar standard
By: Andy Vuong
The Denver Post
October 1, 2007
A two-megawatt solar-energy system that will generate 3.5 million kilowatt hours of clean energy annually is coming to Denver International Airport.
The system, expected to be completed next year, will reduce carbon emissions by more than 5 million pounds each year, according to MMA Renewable Ventures and WorldWater & Solar Technologies, which will build the system.
Designed and installed by WorldWater, the new ground-mounted tracking solar array system - which moves with the sun - will be located at the entrance to DIA's main terminal. The system will be financed by MMA, which will own and operate the system and sell power to DIA under a long-term contract.
DIA said last week that it had been negotiating a 25-year, $10.9 million contract to purchase power from the system.
"Thanks to MMA Renewable Ventures and WorldWater & Solar Technologies, DIA will soon have one of the country's largest airport solar systems," Mayor John Hickenlooper said in a statement.
The project is part of the Xcel Energy Solar Rewards program and will receive a rebate to offset the upfront construction costs.
WorldWater recently contracted with Fresno Yosemite International Airport to build another major solar system.
"By purchasing clean power rather than solar panels, DIA will benefit from a renewable energy system that is cost-effective from the day it becomes operational and for years to come," said Matt Cheney, chief executive of MMA.
Article URL: http://www.denverpost.com/business/ci_7052910
