Feb 26 2010
Vanguard Energy Partners, a leader in the design and installation of large-scale solar electric systems, today announced the completion of two solar power systems for the municipalities of Sparta and Hardyston. Both projects will help offset the electricity bills and further the environmental initiatives of the Sussex County, NJ towns.
Vanguard installed an 88-kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) system on the rooftop of Sparta's Municipal Building that will generate approximately 97,160 kWh per year. The solar electric system is comprised of 377 modules and will produce nearly 15% of the energy needed to power the building from the clean, renewable power of sunlight.
"This was an ideal investment for Sparta because by generating our own electricity, we're saving taxpayer money and going green at the same time," said Mike Dempsey, Sparta's director of technology. Dempsey estimates that the solar electric system will reap $1 million in savings and revenue through the sale of solar renewable energy credits (SRECs).
In addition to reducing electricity costs, Sparta's solar system will lessen the town's environmental impact by reducing carbon emissions by 129,827 pounds per year. That is equivalent to conserving 6,624 gallons of gasoline or 137 barrels of oil.
Hardyston's creatively-constructed 75-kilowatt solar PV array was installed atop a solar support structure that will serve simultaneously as a carport for the police department's vehicles. The solar system is comprised of 324 modules and will generate approximately 77,196 kWh per year or 21% of the building's energy needs.
According to Hardyston Township Manager Marianne Smith, the town will save approximately $250,000 in electricity costs over a 15-year period and garner an additional $935,000 in additional revenue from the sale of solar renewable energy credits (SRECs). Solar power will benefit the environment as well by reducing carbon emissions by 122,223 pounds per year. That is equivalent to saving 6,236 gallons of gasoline or 129 barrels of oil.
"Hardyston Township is pleased that the project is complete and is eager to see energy generation commence. Between energy conservation, revenue generating opportunities with the sale of SRECs, and its positive impact on the environment, the Township feels that it is definitely a win-win project," said Smith.
Both towns will utilize Noveda Technologies' SunFlow Monitor, a real-time, online energy monitoring system that will track the facilities' power consumption, solar production and system efficiency. Hardyston Township will also use SunFlow as an educational tool for students in their Middle School.
Vanguard Energy Partners has now completed or been awarded contracts by nine municipalities for solar systems in New Jersey, including the recent contract for Lopatcong Township in Warren County.
"Vanguard is pleased to support Sparta and Hardyston's commitment to their citizens and the environment. New Jersey has demonstrated world class leadership with solar renewable energy and we are happy to support the state's green economy," stated Paul Zensky, president of Vanguard Energy Partners.
Source: http://www.vanguardenergypartners.com