Duke, Integrys, Smart Energy complete solar projects in US

Duke Energy Renewables, Integrys Energy Services and Smart Energy Capital have completed two ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems for the Central Regional School District in New Jersey, US.

The PV solar arrays at Central Regional Middle School and Central Regional High School can collectively produce about 1.5MW (DC) of zero-emission electricity.

The school district is purchasing all of the output from its respective PV systems at a fixed rate under the terms of a 20-year power purchase agreement with a project company owned by INDU Solar.

INDU is a 50-50 joint venture between Duke Energy Renewables and Integrys Energy Services.

School Administrator Kevin O'Shea said we expect the system will meet 80% to 90% of the district's total electric needs each year.

"At the same time, the district is reducing carbon emissions while educating its students on the environment," O'Shea said.

"The district estimates it will avoid the release of about 19 million pounds of carbon dioxide in the first year of operation."