Ameresco, Inc. and Mountain Regional Water Special Service District have successfully completed Utah’s first floating solar array, located on a holding pond at the Signal Hill Water Treatment Plant. In a company statement, the firm announces the 587.5 kW floating solar array official launche a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by representatives from Ameresco, Mountain Regional Water, and Rocky Mountain Power.
Developed with the expertise of D3Energy, the project received a $400,000 grant from Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky Award program. Designed to generate 871,086 kilowatt-hours of clean energy annually, the floating solar array will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 609 metric tonnes per year. The system will offset 92% of the water treatment plant's grid energy consumption, cutting energy costs by 80%.
Lou Maltezos, Executive Vice President of Ameresco, highlighted the project’s innovation, saying, “This floating solar array demonstrates the benefit of thinking beyond conventional approaches.” The floating solar array uses available water surfaces to generate renewable energy, providing an ideal solution for maximizing energy production without impacting land resources.
Chris Braun, Chief Technology Officer of Mountain Regional Water, emphasized the importance of the project in achieving the district's ‘Net-Zero’ energy goal. " Traditional ground or rooftop solar wasn’t an option for us at this facility, but this innovative floating solar installation makes use of an untapped resource."
Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky program supported the project, furthering its mission to foster renewable energy in local communities. The project was completed ahead of schedule, with full utility permission expected by October 23, 2024.
