ESA Renewables, a turnkey solar systems provider, has been awarded the Intersolar Award for Solar Projects in North America for its Martins Creek Elementary School photovoltaic project. The solar project category was added this year to recognize exceptional projects in North America. Intersolar Europe has been awarding this distinction for several years.
The 999-kW Martins Creek Elementary School installation in Murphy, N.C., is one of the largest solar farms on school grounds in the U.S. The system, which covers 5 acres, benefits not only the elementary school but the surrounding community as well. The system produces 20% more energy than initially projected: 1.3 million kWh of electricity, or the power needed by 150 average-size homes.
The community benefits through the system’s educational monitoring system, as well as through the rural jobs generated by the project. In addition, a portion of the PPA funds generated by the project go back to the school and equate to keeping approximately two school teachers employed annually.
The Intersolar Award recognizes projects, both large and small, which utilize advanced technology, incorporate aesthetic and architectural concepts and exemplify outstanding services and products. The solar project category, open to exhibitors at Intersolar North America 2012, Intersolar Europe 2012, Intersolar China 2011 and Intersolar India 2011, distinguishes installations demonstrating strong innovation in three fields: Solar building; industrial and commercial use; and utility-scale projects. The three winners represent innovation in terms of system design, technology and project financing.
“We are honored to have been recognized for the Intersolar Award,” said Jeffrey Burkett, President of ESA Renewables. “Moving forward, ESA will continue to develop green, innovative solar PV projects that benefit our environment and our customers.”
ESA Renewables
www.esarenewables.com
