Following a formal groundbreaking ceremony on February 5, 2004, construction began on installation of the nation’s largest photovoltaic (PV) system on a community college campus.  The total construction contract of $8.9 million was awarded to Contra Costa Electric of Bakersfield, CA, which selected WorldWater & Solar Technologies, Corp. for the exclusive PV systems supply. The project was completed in June 2004.

The one megawatt system is expected to supply 60 percent of the college’s total energy requirements and provide approximately $300,000 per year in energy savings, according to college officials.

The project design consists of 6-1/2 acres of ground mounted Sharp Electronics solar modules and a freestanding concrete building that houses the inverters, distribution equipment and that also allows for student laboratory space.

Completed Array

For further information about Cerro Coso Community College, go to: http://www.cerrocoso.edu

Go to this link to see a picture progress of the Cerro Coso Project -
http://www.cerrocoso.edu/iwv/pvf/01.htm