SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY
University Affairs Office
1801 E. Cotati Avenue
Rohnert Park, CA 94928-3609
(707) 664-2057
e-mail: jean.wasp@sonoma.edu
University Affairs Office
1801 E. Cotati Avenue
Rohnert Park, CA 94928-3609
(707) 664-2057
e-mail: jean.wasp@sonoma.edu
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 19, 2003 File #370
Contact: Jean Wasp, Media Relations, (707) 664-2057
Solar-Powered Generator In Salazar Hall Earns $340,000 Rebate From PG&E
A campus rooftop solar system, with an impressive array of 1200 panels has earned Sonoma State University a rebate check for $340,000 from Pacific Gas and Electric.The utility will present the check for the photo-voltaic system’s eligibility in PG&E’ Self-Generation Incentive Program to SSU president Ruben Arminana at a special dedication ceremony at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 21.
The solar array covering about 9,500 square feet of roof area of the former campus library generates 75 kilowatts of electricity -- enough energy to run about 80 average homes. The emissions reductions are equivalent to planting 24 acres of trees or removing 400 cars from California highways.
"This project was not conceived to simply reduce utility costs, but provide a valuable opportunity for Sonoma State University to explore the viability of alternate energy," said Bruce Walker, campus architect. "PG&E has been a valuable partner in achieving this goal."
Since 1991, the university has received more than $450,000 in energy efficiency incentives from Pacific Gas and Electric Company and has other projects in the works for an additional $460,000.
"The energy partnership between Pacific Gas and Electric Company and Sonoma State University is long-term and we value the working relationship we have with the campus," said Anlin Ting-Mason, vice president of Internet and Energy Programs Services at the utility.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company is providing the financial incentive through a program that allows customers installing on-site electric generation to obtain rebates to help offset the upfront costs associated with either solar, wind, fuel cell, micro turbine or internal combustion engine systems.
This Self-Generation Incentive Program, is primarily designed for business-sized systems, which help to meet some, or all, of a facility’s power needs. The California Energy Commission offers a similar program targeted to residential customers who install renewable generation sources, such as solar and wind.
For more information on the program visit the PG&E web site at www.pge.com/selfgen