Jul. 24, 2008 at 10:32am

PSE named solar power leader

Despite the Northwest's reputation for cloudy skies, Puget Sound Energy is receiving high marks for its work in developing solar energy resources. According to rankings released by the Solar Electric Power Association today, PSE merits a "Top 10 Solar Ranking" among all utilities across the country.

"Solar energy is proving its potential in Washington, even with weather that some may not see as ideal for harnessing the power of the sun," said Kimberly Harris, executive vice president and chief resource officer for PSE. "We're proud that the work being done by PSE and its customers is showing that the future for solar energy is bright for the Puget Sound area and the state."

According to SEPA, PSE ranks in the top 10 among the nation's utilities in two categories: solar electric capacity on the utility side of the meter (ranking eighth); and, solar electric capacity per customer on the utility side of the meter (ranking ninth). These rankings measure the amount of utility-owned solar generation, and were achieved due to the utility's 500 kilowatt solar array at the Wild Horse Wind and Solar Facility near Ellensburg in Kittitas County.

The Wild Horse solar array uses photovoltaic panels to convert sunlight directly to electricity. The array, which entered service in October 2007, currently comprises 2,400 solar panels, and will gain an additional 300 panels later in 2008. Rated at 500 kilowatt, the array produces the energy equivalent to that needed by 300 homes.

Posted in BE Daily, Building, Law and Legislation, Manufacturing/Trade/Transportation by Steve Dunkelberger | Email Steve

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