The San Joaquin County Department of Public Works hosted a ribbon-cutting on Tuesday, May 30 for the Hazelton Corporation Yard Solar Carport Project at 1810 E. Hazelton Ave., Stockton.
The 496-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system will provide enough power to offset 75 percent of the electricity consumed at this site.
San Joaquin County has a 20-year solar power purchase agreement with NRG Energy, Inc. and anticipates energy cost savings of approximately $3 million over the life of the contract. At the end of the 20-year term, the County has the option to either extend the contract for another five years, purchase the solar system at fair market value, or have the system removed and the site restored at no cost to the County.
Chuck Winn, Chair of the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors, commented, “This project is a great example of the Public Works Department’s continued efforts to implement innovative solutions and is consistent with the Board’s strategic priority to be fiscally prudent with County resources.”
Miguel Villapudua, Vice Chair of the Board of Supervisors, added, “The County is proud to see the Public Works Department complete this innovative project as it provides significant environmental benefits and saves money for our taxpayers. The project will provide 75 percent of the electrical needs of the site and save approximately $3 million in energy costs over the next 20 years. It’s a win-win!”
This clean, renewable energy project is the third of its kind for San Joaquin County. Solar photovoltaic systems are also active at the Agricultural Center and downtown Administration Building. County staff members are currently analyzing the viability of additional solar projects at other County facilities.