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Santa Cruz uses sun to power wastewater treatment facility
City of
Santa Cruz sets example for others
Water in Santa Cruz is a little cleaner these days thanks to the city’s use of
innovative power-production technology.
Recently, the city of Santa Cruz set an example for other organizations when it
invested in a 50.4 kW solar electric system. The solar electric system at the City of
Santa Cruz Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) was designed and installed by Renewable
Energy Concepts of Los Osos. The new system is the second largest in Santa Cruz County.
The solar electricity produced will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 65 tons per year,
which is equal to the planting of 19 acres of trees, and will save the city $15,000 per
year in electricity costs. The system will produce 76, 811 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of
electricity per year, which is enough to power 25 homes. The city is now using almost 50
percent renewable power for its municipal buildings. The system cost of $194,212 was
divided between the city and the Santa Cruz County Sanitation District, and is expected to
pay for itself within 13 years. The system, which has an expected life span of 30 years,
was unveiled to the public on May 17 at a completion ceremony hosted by the Santa Cruz
WWTF.
Installation of the solar electric
system was partnered with two other improvements to the facility: an upgrade to the
plant’s biogas/natural gas electric cogeneration system and a carbon absorption odor
control system. The projects demonstrate the city’s dedication to environmental
protection.
Many other cities and public
utilities would consider grid-connected solar roofs if their states provided financial
incentives. Solar power, most available and least expensive on summer afternoons is the
perfect replacement for the most expensive fossil fuel electricity. It reduces power
peaks, demand charges and cuts emission of greenhouse gases. Maybe if we encouraged more
solar power we would repalce those hazy lazy days of summer with a refreshing new vision
as well as healthy air.
Media Contact: Heather
Zwaduk, Media Relations
(805)
528-9705 ext.350 or (805) 680-2829 |