November 20, 2024 – This article originally appeared in the PublicCEO.
The City of Ventura, in partnership with ForeFront Power, has started construction on two solar energy projects at Ventura Community Park and the Police/Fire Headquarters. Together, these projects will deliver 900 kilowatt-DC (kW DC) of renewable energy through solar parking canopies at both sites.
Scheduled for completion by summer 2025, the solar installations will produce over 1.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually—enough to power 200 homes. Over their 20-year lifespan, the projects are expected to save the City approximately $2.3 million in electricity costs while supporting its environmental sustainability goals.
“This is the largest sustainability project of its kind for the City of Ventura,” said Public Works Director Charlie Ebeling. “Thanks to the support of our City Council and community, these solar energy projects will provide long-term benefits to Ventura.”
The clean energy generated will help reduce the City’s reliance on grid electricity and avoid approximately 1,015 tons of CO2 emissions annually—the equivalent of removing 241 gas-powered vehicles from the road each year.
“We applaud the City of Ventura for undertaking this landmark 900 kW DC solar portfolio,” said Ruben Fontes, CEO of ForeFront Power. “We are proud to support the City in advancing its sustainability goals through this innovative project.”
Through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), ForeFront Power will develop, own and maintain the solar systems at no upfront cost to the City. In return, the City will pay a fixed, below-market rate for electricity over 20 years, ensuring budget predictability and protection against future utility rate increases.
For more information, visit Cityofventura.ca.gov/
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