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Denver International Airport Shows Off 2 MW Solar Energy System
Clean Edge News
August 21, 2008
A two megawatt (MW) solar energy system was recently dedicated at Denver International Airport (DIA). The solar photovoltaic system, spanning seven and a half acres at the airport's entrance, will generate over three million kilowatt hours (kWh) of clean electricity annually, demonstrating Denver's commitment to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions into the atmosphere by more than 6.3 million pounds each year.
MMA Renewable Ventures, which financed, owns and operates the two megawatt system, joined with WorldWater & Solar Technologies and DIA to develop an innovative public-private partnership, leveraging tax credits and incentives to finance this landmark solar power system. This partnership enabled the City of Denver and DIA to deploy this solar array under a long-term contract or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Designed and installed by WorldWater, using more than 9,200 Sharp solar panels, the new ground-mounted photovoltaic solar arrays employ a single-axis tracking system that follows the sun during the day for greater efficiency and energy production.
"This installation at Denver International Airport fits with our Greenprint Denver action agenda for sustainability and our pledge to do all that we can to reduce our carbon footprint," said Mayor John Hickenlooper. "We are proud to have such a large and prominently placed solar power system at DIA. This installation is both a symbol and a practical example of the City's commitment to renewable energy."
The project is part of the Xcel Energy Solar Rewards program and will receive a rebate to offset the upfront construction costs. Xcel Energy will purchase the renewable energy credits from the clean electricity produced in support of Colorado's Renewable Energy Standard, which requires large utilities to generate 20 percent of their power from renewable energy sources by 2020.
Article URL:
http://www.cleanedge.com/story.php?nID=5544
