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Project Partners:
City of Ellensburg
Ellensburg's Utility Customers
Northwest Solar Center
Bonneville Power Administration
Kittitas County PUD
Central Washington University
Nexgen Energy Systems
Fair Point Communications |
Installer:
Earth Friendly Construction
Brooks Solar Inc.
Sunergy Engineering
Wray Electric, Ellensburg, WA |
Location:
Ellensburg, WA |
Capacity:
36 kW |
Type of Power:
Solar |
Placed into Service:
November, 2006 |
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In partnership with BEF, Ellensburg has installed the first “community solar” project in the nation. The unique financial model designed by the City allows local individuals and businesses to participate directly in a solar-electric project, without having to lift a finger (except to write a check, perhaps).
The striking 36 kW solar-electric system sits just off of Highway 90 in Ellensburg, and piques the interest of nearly every passing driver. It also may represent the future of renewable energy project finance in the United States. The groundbreaking project allows local individuals and businesses to make essential financial contributions to the project. In return, these contributors receive direct credits on their electricity bills for the green power produced by the system. This “virtual net metering” arrangement produces a variety of efficiencies. The scale benefits that result from this financial model significantly reduce the cost of solar electricity. Just as importantly, because the City organizes the financial and technical details of project installation and maintenance, participation does not place an undue burden on the local citizens.
Community support for the project in Ellensburg has been tremendous. As financial support pours in over time (Ellensburg residents can sign up by calling Gary Nystedt at (509) 962-7245), the City will expand the system in 12-kilowatt increments. Interest in the model has also been strong in other parts of the northwest, and in other parts of the country. As these communities install their own community solar projects, BEF and the City of Ellensburg can take some satisfaction for having lead the way.
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