PPM Photovoltaic Project

PHOTOVOLTAIC LIVE FEED

One of the largest solar electric installations at a public university in California, the $1.8 million photovoltaic project was developed through a partnership with the university's Physical Plant Management, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), Southern California Gas Company and Shell Solar Industries.

The installation of more than 3,000 solar panels at Cal State Northridge in 2003, is expected to save the university more than $50,000 annually in energy costs while at the same time contributing to a cleaner environment.

For the past two decades, Northridge has been very active in seeking new and innovative technologies to reduce its energy bills. The Photovoltaic Project is a good example of the University's commitment to promoting environmentally friendly technologies, support energy conservation and reduce its energy costs. It represents an excellent example of the collaborative work between academic and administrative divisions of the University, namely the College of Engineering and Computer Science and Physical Plant Management, as well as a model partnership between LADWP, Southern California Gas Company, Shell Solar Industries and CSUN.

The 3.024 Shell solar modules, which are doubling as shading in student parking lot E6 at the northern end of the campus off Halsted Street, can generate 75 watts of power each, producing a peak generating capacity of 225 kilowatts. Much of this power will be generated exactly when it is needed most between 1 and 5 p.m. during summer months.

Photovoltaic cells in the panels absorb the sun's ray's creating direct current power that is directed to a substation where it is converted to alternating power. It is then increased to 4,160 volts of energy and fed into a power grid that distributes electricity throughout campus.

In addition to saving energy, the use of photovoltaic cells is also easing the campus' impact on the environment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, by using 225 kilowatts of photovoltaic capacity, you reduce carbon emissions equal to the amount emitted by an average passenger car driving 722,181 miles.

Through the statewide Self-Generation Incentive Program, Southern California Gas Co. will award up to $54 million in incentives over the next three years to its business customers, which will generate 50,000 - 60,000 kilowatts of power. Launched in 2001 by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), the program pays qualifying businesses up to 50 percent of the costs of installing electricity generation systems.

"The Self Generation Incentive Program makes the purchase and installation of eligible technologies more affordable than ever, which helps our customers become more energy-sufficient and self-reliant"., said Richard M. Morrow, vice president of customer services, major markets for Sempra Energy Utilities, The Gas Company and San Diego Gas & Electric.

Cal State Northridge is considered a leader in energy conservation among university's across the country.