Press Release - Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Press Releases
No Data
QUINN ENCOURAGES MORE POWER COMPANIES AND COMMUNITIES TO EXPLORE HOMEGROWN ENERGY SOURCES
CHICAGO -- Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn joined national solar energy experts and local leaders today to encourage more power companies and communities to explore homegrown energy sources.
The Harold Washington Social Security Center is the new rooftop home to an 8,000 square foot solar electric system - making it the largest federal rooftop solar panel system in Chicago and one of the largest federal arrays in the Midwest.
The Harold Washington Social Security Center worked with ComEd, Powerlight Corporation and the City of Chicago to help reduce energy consumption. As a result, a 100kW photovoltaic roof - which can power up to 50,000 square feet of lighting -- was created.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the rooftop solar panels will displace more than 4 million pounds of carbon dioxide over their 30-year design life.
"This solar power system is a great example of using renewable energy to carry out a vital government function," Quinn said. "We need to encourage everyone to invest in clean All-American energy to save money and help the environment."
Following the presentation, there was a ribbon cutting for the new project and a light display illuminated the auditorium.
"Now is the time to work on our energy independence and reliability through the use of clean, solar power," Quinn said.
Quinn chaired the "Special Task Force on the Condition and Future of Illinois Energy Infrastructure" which examined ways the state could cut electric demand, promote energy efficiency and utilize energy sources such as wind, solar and biomass.
For more information about energy efficiency tips, visit www.BlackoutSolutions.org.
Press Releases
No Data