California jail-top solar array exceeds expectations

April 6, 2005
System generates enough electricity to power 1,000 homes

System generates enough electricity to power 1,000 homes

Alameda County recently announced that the 1.2MW solar array atop the County Jail in Dublin, Calif., is exceeding expectations since its installation in April 2002. Designed and installed by PowerLight Corp., the solar array now generates enough electricity during the daytime to power more than 1,000 homes.

The system has produced a summer peak demand reduction as high as 879kW, which equates to an overall cost savings of more than $1.2 million when factoring in energy efficiency savings and kilowatt-hours produced by the system.

In doubling its solar development, Alameda County will soon lead the nation’s counties in terms of solar use, generating a total of 2.29MW of power and will soon be meeting 6% of its electrical needs at County-owned facilities.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EC&M, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Electrical Conduit Comparison Chart

CHAMPION FIBERGLASS electrical conduit is a lightweight, durable option that provides lasting savings when compared to other materials. Compare electrical conduit types including...

Fiberglass Electrical Conduit Chemical Resistance Chart

This information is provided solely as a guide since it is impossible to anticipate all individual site conditions. For specific applications which are not covered in this guide...

Considerations for Direct Burial Conduit

Installation type plays a key role in the type of conduit selected for electrical systems in industrial construction projects. Above ground, below ground, direct buried, encased...

How to Calculate Labor Costs

Most important to accurately estimating labor costs is knowing the approximate hours required for project completion. Learn how to calculate electrical labor cost.