Chevron Energy Solutions Completes Large-Scale Solar Power Installation at Fresno State
1.1-megawatt system is expected to save more than $13 million in utility costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 950 metric tons
FRESNO, Calif., November 8, 2007
Source: Chevron Energy Solutions press release
http://www.chevronenergy.com/news_room/default.asp?pr=pr_20071108.asp
Chevron Energy Solutions, a unit of Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX), and California State University, Fresno (Fresno State), today announced the completion of a large-scale solar power installation at Fresno State that will supply 20 percent of the university’s annual power needs. The 1.1-megawatt solar system—the largest photovoltaic (PV)-paneled parking installation at a U.S. university—is expected to save Fresno State more than $13 million in avoided utility costs over its 30-year lifespan.
The 10 structures, which provide the only shaded parking on the campus, comprise 3,872 photovoltaic panels mounted on top of more than 700 carport stalls constructed in parking lots on the southeast side of campus. The renewable energy system is expected to generate more than 1.5 million kilowatt hours of power each year, offsetting the production of about 950 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions—equivalent to planting more than 24,300 new trees or removing more than 200 cars from the road every year.
The project was celebrated today at an event attended by state and local dignitaries, university officials, faculty and staff, energy industry representatives and members of the community. “Fresno State is delighted to be a leader in advancing sustainability initiatives and in the conservation of scarce natural resources,” said President John D. Welty. “This project is just one of the university’s ‘green campus’ initiatives.”
At the ceremony, Welty signed the Talloires Declaration, committing Fresno State to a 10-point action plan to incorporate sustainability and environmental literacy into teaching, research, operations and outreach at colleges and universities. It has been signed by more than 350 university presidents and chancellors in 40-plus countries.
“We’re delighted to have partnered with Fresno State on this landmark renewable power project,” said Jim Davis, president of Chevron Energy Solutions. “This solar installation underscores the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability and can serve as a model for other campuses within the California State University system.”
The $11.9 million project cost was partially offset by a $2.8 million rebate administered by Pacific Gas & Electric Company under the State of California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program. The project was financed through an innovative Power Purchase Agreement with MMA Renewable Ventures, LLC, a subsidiary of Municipal Mortgage & Equity, LLC, “MuniMae,” (NYSE: MMA), which owns and operates the PV installation. Under a 20-year contract, Fresno State is purchasing the power generated by the solar installation from MMA Renewable Ventures at market-competitive rates.
The solar parking project includes:
* Ten multi-car, covered parking canopies topped with PV panels
* Four publicly located electronic kiosks that provide real-time status of the photovoltaic production, conversion and electricity output
* Parking lot upgrades, including 150 additional parking spots, repaving, landscaping, improved traffic flow measures and additional lighting and security cameras
The covered parking includes 125 spots designated as premium reserved spaces for faculty and staff who pay a fee above normal campus parking fees for exclusive use of a stall.