Caltrans unveils solar energy system

STOCKTON, Calif., June 18 (UPI) -- California-based Caltrans has unveiled a solar energy system producing enough power for the equivalent of more than 550 homes.

The company deployed a 251 kilowatt photovoltaic system at its District 10 in Stockton, Calif. Caltrans District Director Kome Ajise held a ceremony at the site of the system located in the parking area of the district office.

Caltrans manages more than 45,000 miles of California's highway and freeway lanes, provides intercity rail services, permits more than 400 public-use airports and special-use hospital heliports, and works with local agencies.

The photovoltaic installation was built under a power-purchase agreement with SunEdison, North America's largest solar services company. Under the agreement, Caltrans benefits from solar energy with no upfront cost, thereby avoiding an estimated $1.76 million in capital installation.

"Caltrans has chosen to use renewable energy to demonstrate environmental stewardship and contribute to a healthier environment in the community in which we live and operate," said Kome Ajise, Caltrans District Director

Officials estimate the solar system will prevent the release of more than 5.1 pounds of carbon emissions over 20 years, which is equivalent to removing 503 vehicles off the road for one year. Over the same period, the system will generate enough clean, renewable energy to power roughly 563 homes for a year.

"Caltrans is setting a standard that other transportation entities should follow by implementing cutting edge renewable energy technology to power their facility," said U.S. Representative Jerry McNerney, D-Calif. "I applaud Caltrans' leadership on this issue."