Greentech Lead America: Eaton Corporation has formed
collaboration with Tangent Energy Solutions to develop solar energy generation
installations at Eaton’s facilities in Coraopolis and Vanport Township, Pa.
The partnership will construct a 1.3-megawatt (MW) ground
mount solar array at Eaton’s Beaver facility and a 200-kilowatt (kW) rooftop
array in Coraopolis. The array constructed at Eaton’s Vanport Township
facility on Georgetown Lane will be the largest solar installation in western
Pennsylvania to date.
Once completed the project will supply about 25 percent of the electricity used
by the Vanport facility and both arrays will provide Eaton with 1.76 million
kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean electricity per year. The solar projects will
displace 2.7 million pounds of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases per
year, which is the equivalent of removing 238 cars from the road.
“We chose Tangent for this project because they
understand the more complex energy systems of large, industrial companies,”
said John Vernacchia, manager, Renewable Energy Segment, Eaton. “Their comprehensive solution will improve our costs
now and in the future, while reinforcing our commitment to the environment.”
Tangent, headquartered in Kennett Square, Pa., will
monitor and maintain the solar assets for Eaton over the lifetime of the project.
The company will provide on-site solar generation assets at no capital cost to
Eaton who will purchase the energy produced at a set rate through a long-term
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
Eaton will supply Power Xpert solar inverters, electrical disconnects, combiner
boxes and other equipment for the project. Solar panels were provided by Motech
Industries in Newark, Del.
“This agreement is another example of Eaton’s leadership in sustainable, green
energy solutions and we’re thrilled to be collaborating on these projects,”
said Dean Musser, president and chief executive officer, Tangent Energy
Solutions. “The natural fit of Eaton’s equipment, engineering and construction
capabilities, with our development, technology and energy experience was the
success formula for these projects.”
Project financing was provided by Laurel Capital of Radnor, Pa. and First
Niagara Bank of Buffalo, N.Y. It is also being supported by the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania, Commonwealth Financing Authority.
editor@greentechlead.com
