Solar Solutions:
Incorporating Photovoltaics into Public Infrastructure
Cost
Cost is a factor for public entities to consider. This graph illustrates how costs for installed systems have been declining. Click on image for a larger view.
Size
This graphic shows typical generation capacities of solar installations located on various types of public infrastructure. Click on the image for a larger view.
There are many reasons for local governments to pursue solar power as an energy source: it's clean, has negligible water use, has no fuel costs, provides price stability, contributes to sustainability, and has many other benefits. And local governments have one resource that can make integrating solar energy practical and "shovel ready" -- public infrastructure. A WRA report, "Solar Solutions: Incorporating Photovoltaics into Public Infrastructure" answers the questions about how public infrastructure can incorporate solar generation in a way that multiplies the already substantial benefits.
Buildings and other infrastructure available to governmental entities provide a wide range of options for placement of solar panels in creative ways.
Local and regional governments havea range options for siting photovoltaic
arrays. Click on the image for a
larger view.
By incorporating photovoltaic (PV) generation into infrastructure, the benefits of the infrastructure are maintained without detracting from the main purpose of the park, airport, building, etc. The infrastructure produces clean power, for use on-site or off-site, and provides a traditional public service. Solar panels can augment the function of sound barriers or shade structures and it is even being incorporated into pieces of public art.
In some states, governments have a number of policy tools at their disposal to enable successful implementation of PV projects. These include: renewable portfolio standards, distributed energy or solar set-asides, utility and state incentives for PV, tax incentives for PV, and net metering.
Locating PV generation on public structures is a growing
trend. Click on this image to
see the innovative ways
communities around the
world are building renewable
energy into their communities.
The Solar Solutions report explains how local governments can pay for installing PV systems, create opportunities, and overcome obstacles. PV is a practical addition to infrastructure where policies and programs are favorable and can transform cities and regions into more sustainable systems.
Follow these links for examples of PV systems in public infrastructure in action: