IBEW Local 48 Solar Array, PORTLAND, OR

VALUE DELIVERED

Reduced energy costs; additional revenues from selling energy back to local utilities; expert solar array design and installation; a cleaner environment; a visible demonstration of the client's ongoing commitment to sustainable energy.

OBJECTIVES

To reduce energy consumption and costs, while creating a healthy, environmentally responsible workplace; to provide hands-on installation experience for wiremen participating in the IBEW Photovoltaic Training Program.

SOLUTIONS

Dynalectric Company (Oregon) applied its extensive expertise and wide experience with solar energy installations to provide this client with a solar solution that is already paying dividends. Since the client had been using two smaller solar arrays to train its members in photovoltaic theory and design, it decided to enhance its commitment to both the training program and this type of renewable energy resource with a 77-kilowatt solar array. Dynalectric designed the array, which is located on the new canopy structure over the employee parking area, and then supervised its installation by volunteer members of IBEW Local 48. The project also included a monitoring system that tracks carbon dioxide reductions and current dollar reimbursements. Today, the installation provides, on average, 40 percent of the annual power needed to run the client's administrative offices.

Other Information: While the client originally anticipated a 13-year payback, it now feels that rising energy costs and the opportunity to sell extra power back to local utilities may significantly shorten this timeframe.

BACKGROUND

IBEW Local 48 represents approximately 4,000 members in the electrical construction, telecommunications, broadcasting, electrical manufacturing, maintenance, and marine fields. For over 100 years, the trade group has safeguarded the communities of the Northwest, while maintaining the honor and dignity of working people.

OPERATING COMPANY:
Dynalectric Company (Oregon)

CLIENT:
IBEW Local 48

ENGINEER:
KPFF Consulting Engineers

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR:
Dynalectric Company (Oregon)

		New Construction
		Retrofit
		Electrical Construction
		Mechanical Construction
		Facilities Services
		Consulting Services