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Port of Los Angeles Goes Solar

[ October 23, 2015   //   ]

The Port of Los Angeles has entered a long-term agreement with Hecate Energy Harborside LLC to build, operate, and maintain photovoltaic (PV) solar power systems (PV Systems) that will generate electricity at multiple site locations within the port. The PV Systems will feed clean energy to the utility grid operated by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP).

“This solar project is a perfect example of our city departments doing their part to adopt my Sustainable City plan,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. “Sustainability must be a value shared across departments, industries, and neighborhoods, and I’m very proud to see the Port of Los Angeles investing in the Harbor Area’s sustained health with renewable power sources.”

The agreement supports the port’s larger goals under the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) to expand the use of clean energy and related infrastructure while continuing to improve air quality throughout Southern California. Key initiatives to date include a 1 megawatt (MW) PV System atop the Port’s World Cruise Center.

“To truly eliminate air pollution, the process for generating energy must be as clean as the energy itself,” said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “These new solar projects represent the kind of innovation we embrace as part of our ongoing commitment to operate a commercially vibrant and sustainable seaport.”

The 10 MW of solar energy is enough electricity to power approximately 2500 homes. It also represents approximately one-sixth of the port’s current power demand.

Under the agreement with the port, Hecate will operate its PV Systems for 20 years, starting when each site becomes operational. Subject to final approval by the Los Angeles City Council, the PV Systems are expected to begin generating electricity in mid-2016.

The port will receive approximately 7% of Hecate’s gross annual revenue from the sale of its electricity to the LADWP. The port’s income is projected to total more than $2.8 million over the life of the operating agreement. No costs to the port are anticipated outside of expedited roofing maintenance.

The solar power generation projects will serve to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help the LADWP supply clean energy to its customers.

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