Solar Energy Boost for Wastewater Treatment
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District (Central San) has completed a 2.16 MW solar array in partnership with REC Solar. Located near Central San’s treatment plant in Martinez, California, this array will generate renewable energy, offsetting most of the annual grid demand for the treatment plant and major pumping stations.
Environmental and Economic Impact
The solar array will eliminate 1,865 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, equivalent to removing 444 gasoline-powered vehicles from the road each year. Melody LaBella, Central San’s Resource Recovery Program Manager, highlighted the dual benefits of this project. “It will achieve substantial savings for Central San’s ratepayers while reducing our climate footprint and furthering our mission to protect the environment,” she said.
Strategic Solar Investment
Central San’s Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan aims to optimize energy production and minimize greenhouse gas emissions. To this end, Central San hired ARC Alternatives to explore solar photovoltaic (PV) expansion and identify energy efficiency opportunities.
REC Solar designed, engineered, and constructed the 2.16 MW ground mount solar array on a repurposed portion of a 48-acre property near the treatment plant. The project was designed to have minimal disruption and low visibility to neighboring residents.
Financial and Operational Details
The project was financed through a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This arrangement shifts the project from a capital expense to a predictable monthly payment without price escalation. REC Solar will operate and maintain the array throughout the PPA’s duration. The array is expected to generate nearly $6 million in net electricity bill savings over the next 25 years.
Robb Jetty, CEO of REC Solar, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership. “This project is a clear example of how solar can deliver real value to organizations and communities. We look forward to seeing the project’s impact in the future,” he said.
About REC Solar and Central San
Founded in 1997, REC Solar is a leading solar energy integrator in the U.S. The company’s portfolio includes solar and energy storage projects for commercial enterprises, schools, universities, and municipal entities. REC Solar provides zero-upfront-cost financing, long-term development, and maintenance of solar and storage projects.
Central San serves nearly 500,000 residents and over 15,000 businesses across 146 square miles in central Contra Costa County. Its mission is to protect public health and the environment through effective wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal. Central San also operates a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility and promotes pollution prevention through educational and informational programs.
Source：prnewswire.com
