The ground-mounted solar electric system, the Coachella Valley's largest photovoltaic installation, was designed and manufactured by Shell Solar Industries, the largest California-based solar manufacturer, with installation by SoCal Solar Energy Systems, Inc., a Shell Solar channel partner, based in Mission Viejo, California.

Unique to the solar industry, Shell Solar utilized an innovative assembly method known as “panelization.” Rather than connecting individual modules at the installation site, Shell Solar factory-assembled individual modules into very large “panels” at their Camarillo facility.

Assembling modules into panels in a factory environment achieves greater quality control and economic efficiencies. “Panelization” also allows for faster and lower installation costs with virtually no waste from shipping materials.

Desert Water Agency’s project costs were significantly reduced due to a $1.2 million rebate from Southern California Edison (SCE), administered through the Self-Generation Incentive Program.

The SCE Self-Generation Incentive Program is an initiative authorized by the California State Energy Commission to encourage the installation of new low or zero-emission, self-generation units. It is designed to help customers and the state manage peak electrical demand while addressing air-quality concerns.

“Sunny Palm Springs is one of the world’s ideal locations for a solar energy system of this magnitude,” said Desert Water Agency Board President, Ron Starrs. “This investment in renewable energy benefits our ratepayers and the environment. It also makes the statement that utility companies should demonstrate leadership in conserving natural resources.”

The football field size installation has more than 2,000 Shell PowerMax™ Ultra solar modules which span hundreds of feet through the yard. Each solar module delivers 35 volts and 175 watts, for predicted energy performance of 662,000 kilowatts hours per year, virtually eliminating the electrical bills for Desert Water’s main office in Palm Springs.

The solar installation will save the Agency more than $70,000 annually at today’s rates, according to Desert Water Agency General Manager, Dave Luker. “One of the Agency’s biggest operating expenses is for electricity. It takes a significant amount of energy to operate our air-conditioned headquarters and it takes energy to pump water from the groundwater aquifer. With worldwide energy shortages, costs are only going to escalate. This installation is a valuable tool for controlling Agency operating costs,” said Luker.