ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico (February 15, 2010) National Electric has installed one of the largest private solar systems in New Mexico. With over 95,000 square feet of roof space, National believes this project will not only provide energy and cost savings, but it will give others in the community a place to observe a system of this magnitude in operation.
Installation of the solar photovoltaic (PV) system began in November 2009 and took 63 days from inception to completion. The system is designed to produce 250 kilowatts, which will cover about 86% of National's electric demand. The system is comprised of 1,138 220-watt photovoltaic panels which are mounted to the roof at a 20 degree tilt using a Sunlink Solar Racking System. The DC power is converted in to AC power by a 250KWdc Satcon Commercial Solar PV Inverter.
A variety of factors influenced National's decision to take on a project of this size. National wanted to enter the renewable energy market by learning firsthand what is required and what to expect in building a solar PV array system. They also had a strong desire to be environmentally conscious and lower their carbon footprint as a corporation.
"Investing in solar products today makes sense," remarked Skip Lenfest, vice president sales and business development. "It allows you to lock in your energy costs now when other non solar participating businesses cannot. Taking advantage of current cash rebates and tax credits also make this option more attractive and affordable."
The economics and timing provided an financial opportunity for National's return on investment. They were able to take advantage of the renewable energy tax credits from Federal and State governments, bonus depreciation and the Renewable Energy Credits (REC) purchase program from the Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM). With the added savings opportunities, National expects to recoup its cost in about six years. After that, PNM will continue to pay National for every kilowatt they generate for another fourteen years.