Morris County, Tioga Energy and SunDurance Energy Kickoff First Solar Installation in Innovative Renewable Energy Program Pilot
Date: 06/23/2010
Company: Tioga Energy
Source: Tioga Energy
Morristown, NJ – June 23, 2010 – Today, the Morris County Improvement Authority (MCIA) of New Jersey along with solar energy provider Tioga Energy and installation contractor SunDurance Energy, will celebrate the start of construction on a 1.57 megawatt (MW) solar project at the William G. Mennen Sports Arena. The kickoff event heralds the initiation of the County’s 3.2 MW renewable energy program pilot, which encompasses 19 local facilities and is being financed through a landmark public-private solar development model, referred to as the “Morris Model.” Construction is starting just six months after the County announced their plans in January 2010.
“The sun is shining on Morris County, New Jersey, and we have an ingenious model of solar financing to thank for capturing that energy,” said Morris County Freeholder William Chegwidden, liaison to the Improvement Authority. “This ambitious project demonstrates a true feat of collaboration and innovation between the public and private sector. Tioga and SunDurance brought to the table unparalleled expertise in piecing together the finance and operations of solar development. County officials and stakeholders secured responsible financing and demonstrated unwavering commitment.”
“New Jersey can be a leader in energy as an industry if we continue to harness our innovation, resources and workforce,” said New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. “Powered by smart businesses and communities, as exemplified today in Morris County, and strategic financial incentives, this new marketplace is opening up jobs and revenue for the state at a rapid pace.”
Today’s event will ceremonially unveil the first of the 14,000 solar panels to be installed at 19 schools and county government buildings throughout the County. When completed, the total project will result in an energy savings of more than $3.8 million. The Mennen Sports Arena solar system—which comprises installations on all three ice rink rooftops plus elevated solar structures covering more than 500 parking spaces—will produce 30 percent of the facility’s electricity.
