Valley Metro to build solar plant at light-rail facility

A new solar plant will be installed at Valley Metro's light-rail operations and maintenance facility in Phoenix later this year, the agency announced yesterday.

Valley Metro's board recently awarded a $2.9 million design-build contract to Natural Power and Energy L.L.C. to construct the plant, which will be capable of generating 780 kW of energy annually while reducing greenhouse-gas emissions, Valley Metro officials said in a press release.

"Adding solar as an energy source expands our menu of daily sustainable practices, which includes low-emissions fleet and water reclamation systems," said Valley Metro Chief Executive Officer Steve Banta.

Valley Metro received a $2.7 million grant through the Federal Transit Administration's Transit Investments for Greenhouse Gas and Energy Reduction program for construction and installation of the solar photo-voltaic plant. Additional funding was received through the APS Schools and Government Incentive program, which provides $85,000 per year in Renewable Energy Credits for 20 years to cover up to 40 percent, or $1.36 million, of the project's total cost.

The agency estimates it will save about 16 percent, or $100,000, annually in energy consumption at the plant, where light-rail vehicles are serviced. The system is expected to be operational in the fall.