Solar powered prisons helps cut costs in no time

By Kizzi Nkwocha - 20 December 2012 - pvtech.org

Officials in Merced County, California, recently celebrated the launch of a 1.4 megawatt solar complex that will generate enough electricity to power two full-size correctional facilities.

Two arrays consisting of 6,272 solar panels were installed on 4.5 acres of land near the John Latorraca Correctional Facility and the Iris Garrett Juvenile Justice Correctional Complex. Designed by Siemens, the installation is expected to provide approximately 70 percent of the facilities’ peak electricity consumption.

“We are thrilled to be turning on a new era of sustainability for Merced County citizens. I think all will agree we have made a solid investment that will yield tremendous fiscal and environmental benefits to the county and its citizens for decades to come,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman John Pedrozo.
 

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