200 kW Private Solar Array Planned for Calif.

The largest solar array in Los Angeles is in the works at Johnson & Johnson's Neutrogena division's corporate offices, thanks to incentives from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and turnkey delivery by PowerLight of Berkeley.

By Staff March 8, 2001

The largest solar array in Los Angeles is in the works at Johnson & Johnson’s Neutrogena division’s corporate offices, thanks to incentives from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and turnkey delivery by PowerLight of Berkeley.

Project cost to install a 200 kW system—100 kW installations in two buildings—is $1.4 million and the solar system is projected to help reduce energy consumption by 20 percent per month. The project, which will cover 24,000 square feet of roof area, is scheduled to begin in May and be completed in July.

“This is precisely the type of innovation and leadership we need from California-based businesses and municipal utilities to help solve the energy crisis on a long term basis,” said California Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore Fred Keeley (D-Santa Cruz), who has taken a lead role in finding solutions to the state’s energy crisis. “Solar power system contributions to our energy needs are immediate, and the environmental benefits enduring.”

According to Ruth Galanter, president pro tem of the Los Angeles City Council, Neutrogena’s solar program will eliminate more than 513,000 pounds of CO 2 annually, which is the equivalent of removing 53 automobiles from Los Angeles streets.

A 2,000-watt system (2kW) can supply the average home (1,500-2,000 sq. ft.) with 20 percent to 60 percent of its power. With the incentive from the LADWP, a 2kW system costs approximately $8,000. A typical 2kW residential rooftop solar system produces 3,600 kW hours per year. This system produces the same amount of electricity as burning 3.7 tons of coal, and prevents 10,000 lbs. of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere.

LADWP has set a goal of 100,000 solar rooftops by 2010. With year-round sunshine, air quality issues and growing demand for electricity, Los Angeles is seen as a solid proving ground for photovoltaic technology.