Huge Assembly Spans 7.5 Acres At Entrance
One of the nation's largest airports
is going "green..." and in a highly-visible manner, just in time
for the Democratic National Convention. A two megawatt (MW)
solar energy system was dedicated this week at Denver International
Airport (DEN). The solar photovoltaic system, spanning seven and a
half acres at the airport's entrance, will generate over three
million kilowatt hours (kWh) of clean electricity annually... part
of Denver's effort reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere by
more than 6.3 million pounds each year.
"This installation at Denver International Airport fits with our
Greenprint Denver action agenda for sustainability and our pledge
to do all that we can to reduce our carbon footprint," said Mayor
John Hickenlooper. "We are proud to have such a large and
prominently placed solar power system at DIA. This installation is
both a symbol and a practical example of the City's commitment to
renewable energy."
The array uses over 9,200 ground-mounted Sharp photovoltaic
solar arrays, which employ a single-axis tracking system to follow
the sun during the day for greater efficiency and energy
production. The array is one of the largest solar installations at
any public airport in the US.
The project was financed by MMA Renewable Ventures, a subsidiary
of Municipal Mortgage & Equity, LLC, which will also operate
the system. The company partnered with WorldWater and Denver
International Airport to develop the public-private partnership,
leveraging tax credits and incentives to finance the landmark solar
power system.
This partnership enabled the City of Denver and Denver
International Airport to deploy this solar array under a long-term
contract or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
"We are delighted that such a major metropolitan airport as
Denver International has embarked on a solar energy system that is
as impressive in scope as this two megawatt installation, which is
the equivalent in size to seven football fields," said Frank Smith,
CEO of WorldWater. "In addition, our expertise in designing and
installing commercial-scale solar systems enabled us to address the
complex power needs of a major transportation hub like Denver
International."
DEN is one of three US airports to be accepted into the
Environmental Protection Agency's National Performance Track
Program. Airport officials say the solar project illustrates how
sustainable development can work as an integral operating
principle, while the airport maintains a successful, profitable
business.
ANN's Daily Aero-Linx (05.02.24)
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