County plans to install solar panels

Monmouth County residents will soon reap the environmental and economic benefits of solar energy. Next year, the county will implement the first phase of a renewable energy program using canopy and roof installations.

"It is vital that we take the concept of clean, renewable energy very seriously," said Freeholder Amy A. Mallet, who spearheaded the initiative on behalf of the county. "Now we have the opportunity to move forward on these projects on a large scale."

At its Dec. 22 meeting, the Board of Freeholders was expected to "green light" the receipt of bids for installation and maintenance of solar photo-voltaic (PV) systems at five county locations. PV systems use solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity, according to a press release from the county.

The five locations, which will generate about 1.5 megawatts of electricity, are Monmouth County Hall of Records, Freehold Borough; Monmouth County Court House, Freehold Borough; John L. Montgomery Care Center, Freehold Township; Human Services Complex, Freehold Township; and Monmouth County Library Headquarters, Manalapan.

A combination of roof-mounted and canopy systems are anticipated at the sites. Structural roof assessments will be conducted by the bidders.

Power purchase agreements enacted by the state will allow the county to enter into an agreement wherein the county provides the location and preliminary information on the sites, and the vendor accepts all installation and maintenance responsibilities. There is no startup cost to the county, according to the press release.

"These solar installations will enable us to realize a significant discount on our energy costs from day one, while reducing our impact on the environment," Mallet said. "The county's energy costs will become more stable as it becomes a producer. This is a win-win for all involved."

The board has contracted the PMK group, which has served as the county energy consultant for several years, to develop specifications and oversee the bidding process. PMK Group has consulted on a number of solar projects throughout the state, including one at Monmouth University, West Long Branch.

"Once details of the project are available, we will have a clearer understanding how much money the county will save by producing its own electricity," Mallet said. "These projects will create jobs."

By completing these PV projects, the reductions in greenhouse gas emissions will be equivalent to: 1,286 metric tons of coal; 246 passenger vehicles; 144,655 gallons of gasoline; 2,991 barrels of oil; annual electricity usage of 167 homes, and 32,976 tree seedlings grown for 10 years.