The Sun. Plug In.

Share |
Print

IRWD is well known for its water conservation programs, and strives to conserve power and reduce dependency on fossil fuels as well. Nearly 700 solar panels on the roof of our Sand Canyon office building provide 20 percent of the total energy needs of the building through a 100 kilowatt system. The roof-mounted panels also provide shade reducing the amount of energy needed for heating and cooling and extending the life of the roof itself. The initial cost of this project was $1.4 million. IRWD received a rebate from California Edison for $243,000. At current energy rates the project is expected to pay for itself in 12 years or less. The solar panels have a life expectancy of 20 to 25 years.

IRWD completed installation of more than 800 solar panels on the roof of the IRWD Zone 3 drinking water reservoir in April 2011. This project will provide approximately 365,000 KWh per hear, or about half of the energy needed to run the reservoir facility.

The installation of the solar panels is just the latest in IRWD's energy management program. IRWD has also received nearly $600,000 in Edison rebates and incentives for installing energy-saving features in the Irvine Desalter Project, in a booster pump station, and outfall pump stations and other facilities. Those projects are estimated to save more than $400,000 annually on energy costs. Additionally, by reducing imported water use in the IRWD service area, the District has cut greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 20,000 tons annually.
© Irvine Ranch Water District | Contact Us | Media | Links | Privacy Policy | Home