4 replies to this topic

[Hardison]

I stumbled upon this little news item. West Irving Library in Texas completely runs on solar power. In fact the produce more than they use and give the excess back to the grid.

A short video and blurb here:
http://www.nbclosang...-Grid/147925725

I search for more information about this library and couldn't find very much. I am surprised because it's quite an accomplishment. I did find another short article about the library being a finalist for a green project award.


http://www.bizjourna...nalist-for.html

[FamilyTreeClimber]

This is really awesome, Hardison!  It must save them a little bit of money on energy costs.  Since libraries are always strapped for cash, every little bit helps.

Texas has yet to put much effort into solar, though I think they come in 5th for solar power in the country.  But, it seems like a logical place for it.  My friend lives in a part of Texas where Winter comes in around 70 degrees.  They have abundant sunshine most of the year.

Just think if all or most businesses went solar and contributed to the grid?  It would certainly help decrease some of the issues we have with energy shortages.

[Hardison]

I know. Texas is tailor made for solar energy. I am very surprised that I couldn't find a lot of information about this library. It may have something to do with Texas being both a red  and oil state.

[artistry]

Good for them. It's excellent that compaines are trying to help solve the energy problem. Thanks for the post.

[r. zimm]

That is a great idea since a library is a long term facility and has the infrastructure to do the required maintenance. Every time I look around at all the roofs in South Florida I imagine what amount of electricity could be produced if all of them had even some sort of low output solar panels, like something you paint on!