We Flipped the Switch!
Solar Energy Comes to Earl Warren Showgrounds
The Board of Directors of the 19th District was first approached about project more than 18 months ago. The goal was to make the showground as self-sufficient as possible concerning its electrical power needs while doing this in the most environmentally friendly manner. The California Construction Authority devised a program to make affordable Photovoltaic Solar Systems available to the State Division of Fairs and Expos.
The System was funded in large part by a grant from Southern California Edison with a zero interest loan provided by the Division of Fairs and Expositions, and low interest loans from private sources. The system will ultimately supply 85% of power used at the Showgrounds. Over eight thousand panels have been installed on the barn roofs which in total cover over a full acre of surface area. On a bright, clear day enough electricity is generated to provide the power needs for 175 homes. Currently the average yearly electrical cost for the showgrounds is approximately $120,000. An estimated $95,000 will be saved each year which will be more than enough to finance the system.
The Earl Warren Showgrounds would like to thank the Board of Directors of the 19th District Agricultural Association for its progressive, far-sighted decision to pursue this project, the California Construction Authority for its diligence in developing the program, The California Division of Fairs and Expositions for its dedication to solving this far reaching problem and financial support and Southern California Edison for its financial support and dedication to pursuing alternate power sources.
Energy self sufficiency does not have to come at the expense of environmental degradation. They are not mutually exclusive propositions. The photovoltaic project proves that with creativity, imagination and determination, clean, efficient sources of electric power can be a reality.
Educational Links
Photovoltaic Systems Performance Data -- or how much electricity we are creating.
BP Solar's Photovoltaic Education page.
This project was made possible in part by:
