The largest solar power system in North America is now online. The plant is located on Nellis Air Force base in Las Vegas. It will save a staggaring $1 million in power cost for the base plus reduce CO2 emissions by 24,000 tons per year.
"The photovoltaic system is made up of 72,000 solar panels," MetaEfficient. "It's enough to provide 30% of the electric needs on the base, where 12,000 people work and 7,215 people live. But at 14 megawatts the power output of this system is modest, compared to the solar thermal Nevada One project which generates 64 megawatts of power. MMA Renewable Ventures, LLC has financed and will operate the solar power plant, selling electricity to Nellis Air Force Base at a guaranteed fixed rate for the next 20 years."
The plant was privately constructed and will recover it's construction costs by selling power to the base.
Air Force Base Goes Green
Nellis AFB Has Largest Solar Power Plant in North America
Trend Themes
1. Renewable Energy Integration - As more businesses and organizations invest in solar power, there will be an increased demand for solutions to integrate these alternative energy sources into existing power grids.
2. Photovoltaic Panels Innovation - Innovative solutions on designing and manufacturing photovoltaic panels will be in demand to increase the efficiency of solar power systems and make them more cost-effective.
3. Green Energy Policies - There will be a growing push for government policies promoting green energy solutions such as solar power to reduce carbon emissions and increase energy efficiency.
Industry Implications
1. Energy - The energy industry has an opportunity to invest in photovoltaic panels and other renewable energy technologies to support the transition to clean energy.
2. Defense - Military and defense organizations can lead by example by investing in green energy solutions such as solar power to reduce CO2 emissions and costs while strengthening national security.
3. Construction - As the demand for solar power continues to rise, the construction industry has an opportunity to innovate and develop new construction techniques and materials to support the installation of solar panels and reduce the environmental impact of buildings.