Construction firm McKinstry is working on solar projects in two Arkansas counties. In Howard County, McKinstry will work on energy efficiency retrofits along with a 240-kW system on a county building. The solar system is expected to cover 100% of the county’s energy needs. In Sebastian County, McKinstry also completed efficiency retrofits and is currently studying whether a solar project could extend cost savings.
“A solar array is something I might never have considered if not recommended by McKinstry,” said Howard County Judge Kevin Smith. “I commend them for finding a way to introduce a renewable energy source that above all else provides real cost savings, which allow the county to pay for critical maintenance and upgrades with zero cost burden for taxpayers. This project will have a profound impact on our county courthouse and several other key county facilities for years to come.”
The Sebastian County solar assessment was made possible by reduced PV technology costs along with new Arkansas legislation that makes solar energy projects more favorable across the state. If the McKinstry assessment identifies feasible opportunities, Sebastian County will vote on whether to move forward with the PV installations, which would be funded by a loan repaid by utility cost savings generated by the solar energy.
“McKinstry delivers comprehensive energy solutions to our clients that focus on cutting energy consumption first, followed by strategic renewable energy projects,” said Michael Grabham, Vice President of McKinstry’s South Region. “Solar PV and other renewable energy projects make real financial sense in Arkansas, allowing us to look for new opportunities to cut utility and operating costs by deploying a broad spectrum of technologies.”
News item from McKinstry
Tell Us What You Think!