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For Immediate Release: May 18, 2010
Board Approves Cost Saving Solar Power Project
Santa Rosa, California (May 18, 2010) - The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors approved the installation of a 750 kilowatt solar energy system at the Los Guilicos Juvenile Justice Center. This project will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 662 tons per year, save the County $3.2 million dollars and help produce 45 private sector jobs in the community. The Solar Array is being funded by future energy savings financing, federal stimulus funds and utility rebates.
Sonoma County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Valerie Brown commented: This is a smart investment in sustainability. At a time when the county budget is strained, this endeavor will reduce our costs and our climate impact. This is exactly the type of enterprise our county needs and it eloquently reflects our Board’s economic and environmental goals.
Jose Obregon, Director of County General Services added: The Juvenile Hall will have 80% of its energy needs provided by a clean renewable source, the sun, and at a reduced price. Our innovative public-private partnership with Aircon has yielded a 30% per watt savings compared with average solar arrays. This means instead of paying $8.00 per watt, we will be paying only $5.75 per watt and this project will have a positive cash flow from day one!
The total cost for the project is $4.6 million and during its life time it will generate over $3.2 million in net savings. The Los Guilicos Solar Array is one of 38 county facility energy efficiency projects slated for 24 county buildings that will ultimately save $41.6 million in energy use once completed.
About the County of Sonoma
The County of Sonoma is comprised of 26 departments and agencies that provide a full range of services to the community. It encompasses over 1,600 square miles and is home to more than 475,000 residents. Sonoma County government has a history of providing excellent and responsive public service while operating under sound fiscal principles.
Located less than one hour north of San Francisco, Sonoma County combines in one location the beautiful Pacific coastline, award-winning wineries, majestic redwoods, historic towns, fine dining, and a wide variety of entertainment and cultural activities.
Contact Information
- Contact:
- Community and Governmental Affairs ManagerCounty Administrator’s OfficeCounty of Sonoma
- Address:
- 575 Administration Drive, Suite 104 ASanta Rosa, CA 95403
- Email:
- jleddy@sonoma-county.org
- Phone:
- (707) 565-2190
- Fax:
- (707) 565-3778
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