Case Studies
These case studies illustrate different strategies and policies for leveraging the benefits of solar. Check back, because we are producing more all the time.
Bundling with Energy Efficiency
By bundling solar with energy efficiency, the Moscone Convention Center Project (PDF) demonstrates a revenue-positive way of financing solar that can be done anywhere.
Do-It-Yourself
The California Construction Authority is putting solar energy systems on state fairgrounds throughout California. By buying in bulk and cutting out middlemen at every step, the CCA is achieving tremendous savings: installed costs between $4.00 and $4.50 a watt, pre-rebate. See a case study of the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds (PDF) in Chico, CA.
Time of Use Rates Pay
Oroville, a city of 12,000 in Northern California, recently installed a 520 kW dual-tilt solar system on its wastewater treatment plant (PDF). By taking advantage of time-of-use utility rates and net metering, electricity costs were cut by up to 80%.
Low-Cost Financing
Marin County recently put a 89 kW system on their General Services building (PDF). The system was almost entirely financed by a 3.85%, 15-year loan from the California Energy Commission.
Third Party Solar Services
Instead of buying solar systems, why not buy solar electricity? Staples (PDF) found the benefits of buying solar by the kWh compelling, and recently signed contracts to buy the output of two 280 kW systems on their distribution center roofs at rates below utility rates. This method also allows municipalities, which don't have tax burdens, to utilize the 30% federal tax credit. The City of San Diego recently signed a 5 MW deal (PDF) below utility rates. We've posted the RFP (PDF) and related documents exhibit A (PDF) and exhibits B-G (PDF).
Boosting Solar in the Community
After putting solar on their own buildings and leading by example, Marin County built on that momentum with an innovative program for identifying local business owners with solar-friendly roof-space, and educating them about the benefits of solar.