San Diego Zoo to Provide Solar-Powered Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Thanks to solar electricityin San Diego, CA, electric vehicle (EV) owners can soon add another reason to their list of why they should be happy for purchasing an eco-friendly car. In addition to reducing both their fuel cost and their dependence on fossil fuels, they can now keep their minds at ease while they visit the San Diego Zoo.

The San Diego Gas & Electric's sustainable communities program will initiate their project to supply a section of the San Diego Zoo’s parking lot with solar panels this fall, installing enough solar panels to supply five EV charging stations. Renewable sources, such as solar power, will thus provide a more efficient way to travel around the state. In addition to the electricity generated, the panels will also provide shade for up to fifty vehicles – a positive externality of solar power to say the least.

Each of these solar electric SanDiego Zoo panels is projected to provide approximately 90 kilowatts of energy. The local power grid will purchase any surplus electricity generated, which can then be used for the local community – so no need to worry about waste.

Here at Solaire Energy Systems we are thrilled by the San Diego Zoo’s decision to support individuals going solar. For more information, check out this supported article on the San Diego Zoo going solar.

Bringing Solar to San Diego Pools with Bill 2249

A bill passed by the California State Assembly in August will amend the 2007 California Solar Water Heating and Efficiency Act to provide an incentive to commercial pools choosing to install solar water heating systems.  Bill 2249 is part of a series of three bills recently passed by the California legislature designed to improve access and financing for solar energy in California, particularly for businesses and large-scale commercial properties.

Authored by Joan Buchanan (D-Alamo), Bill 2249 seeks to expand on a state incentive program that was designed to encourage California residents to choose solar pool heaters over traditional gas or electric heaters.  The bill will expand access by making certain businesses that may not have been eligible before eligible – in particular, it will expand the state’s definition of a solar water heater to include solar pool heaters.

The bill will also expand the qualifications to be eligible for government financing for a solar pool/water system to include schools and non-profit organizations, which allows school systems in San Diego and all over California with swimming pools to enjoy the same cost-saving benefits as private residences.

In spite of warm summer California temperatures, pool water can often be unpleasantly cold year-round.  It’s especially important for community pools and schools to be able to heat their pool water –maintaining the water at swimmable temperatures during the entire year facilitated school water sports and P.E. classes as well as motivates students and community members to be active and use the pool.  San Diego solar pool heating systems can reduce costs associated with heating a pool immediately and significantly increase use of the pool whether installed in a residence or a school.

Solaire Energy Systems is one of the leading solar pool installers in in San Diego. Contact us to find out more!