Welcome back, solar aficionados! Today, I’m putting the spotlight on a recent development in the solar arena that’s not only helping a local community but also serving as a bright example of the immense benefits the sun can offer. Let’s talk about the YMCA in Frederick County, Maryland, which recently took an eco-friendly leap by installing a 222 kW solar array.
Solar panels for your home, business, or even community service facilities like the YMCA, can offer a wealth of benefits – and our friends in Maryland have shown us how it’s done. This impressive solar array is made up of 544 monocrystalline panels from JinkoSolar, and it’s set to produce a whopping 294 MWh in its first year of operations. In other words, solar companies are empowering organizations to make their own electricity.
This goes to show how solar power can shave considerable sums off your electricity bill. The YMCA stands to save an estimated $100,000 on its electricity costs over the 25 years of its service agreement. Now, just imagine what a solar array for home use could save you in the long run!
Now, let’s look at the bigger picture for a moment – the environment. By opting to use solar power, the YMCA is projected to abate 2,997 metric tons of carbon emissions. This impressive step towards sustainability illustrates just how solar is pivotal in our fight against climate change. I like to remind my wonderful readers, whether you’re a homeowner eyeing solar panels for your home or a business exploring alternative energy options, every solar installation makes a difference.
But the YMCA didn’t stop at solar panels – they’ve also installed an electric vehicle charger at the facility, opening the door to an eco-friendly transport solution for both members and non-members. And guess what? The electricity it uses is powered by their solar array. It’s an increasingly popular approach among many who want to combine on-site solar and electric transportation.
Looking beyond Maryland, Secure Solar Futures – the solar company behind this impressive project – is making strides throughout the country. Highlighting through actions what I continuously preach in every blog post: the benefits of solar power are far-reaching and powerful.
So, as you peruse solar options and compare solar companies, don’t forget that each solar installation – be it a small rooftop solar array for home use or a large scale project like this one at the YMCA – contributes to a greener, more sustainable future.
Watch this space, my friends – the sun is just getting started!
Original Article: https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/01/09/maryland-ymca-to-cut-energy-costs-with-rooftop-solar/
