WEED, CA – The City of Weed plans to “flip the switch” on its new solar photovoltaic (PV)
systems and ring in the generation of clean energy in a celebration to take place on Friday, July 12. The ceremony, slated for 10 to 10:30 a.m. under the solar shade structure at City Hall (550 Main Street in Weed, CA), will draw city leaders, community members and local media.
“After over a year of planning, we’re thrilled to announce that City Hall and our wastewater
treatment plant will be powered by solar energy!” said City of Weed Mayor Ken Palfini. “With modernized energy infrastructure across the City, our community can look forward to a healthier, smarter and more vibrant future. Climatec has been a key partner in Weed becoming a smart, sustainable city.”
The PV systems are expected to produce approximately 333,000 kWh per year and 8.35 million kWh over its lifetime. The equivalent annual outcome of these returns are 32 cars off the road, 17,379 gallons of gasoline saved, 4,531 trees preserved and 23 American homes powered.
The new PV systems, however, are only one piece of Weed’s plan to advance its sustainability and reap energy and cost savings. Via a partnership with Climatec Energy Services, Weed has invested in interior and exterior LED lighting at City buildings; new heating and cooling at the City Hall; networked temperature controls at Weed Library and improvements to the city’s wastewater treatment plant. Savings accrued over the lifespan of the new equipment and the solar system are estimated at $5.5 million and 12.1 million kWh.
“The projected financial and energy savings will create a reservoir that can be reinvested in our community–this is a huge feat for our city,” said Weed City Manager Ronald (“Ron”) W. Stock. “From planning to construction, Climatec has been instrumental to the solar power generation system’s timely execution. Their dedication to us as a client has put us on track to achieve our energy efficiency and financial goals.”
The City formally adopted the project on January 11, 2018 on a 5-0 vote, which was funded by a 1 percent loan from the California Energy Commission. In approximately 12 months, Climatec implemented work on the project.
“As a proud leader in energy efficiency, Climatec finds it incredibly satisfying to bring energy efficiency and smart technology to communities like the City of Weed,” said Tyler Girtman, Climatec account manager for Weed. “These innovations wouldn’t have been possible without the thoughtful leadership exhibited by city leaders like Ron, Ken and all of Weed’s City Council and staff. Weed is a prime example of a community whose push to become more sustainable will benefit us all.”
About the City of Weed
The City of Weed, California is nestled at the base of Mount Shasta in the Cascade Mountains and half way between San Francisco and Portland. The community is surrounded by natural beauty, breathtaking vistas, and unmatched outdoor recreation. The City is a historic lumber town which has retained much of its early 1900’s charm, while transitioning into a tourist destination. An easy one-hour drive north of Redding on Interstate 5 brings you to our home where you may enjoy abundant lakes and rivers, beautiful forests, wildlife, scenic drives, local art, festivals, live music, and a friendly community. Visit ci.weed.ca.us for more information.
About Climatec
Founded in 1975, Climatec is a leading provider of advanced building technologies and energy efficiency solutions. It serves building owners across nearly all market segments including education, health care, office, hospitality, industrial, federal, state and local government. Climatec’s automation and efficiency solutions improve building comfort and deliver significant energy and operational savings. Its life-safety and security solutions create productive environments that protect building occupants and business assets. Climatec is headquartered in Phoenix with offices across the country and 800 full-time employees. Visit climatec.com for more information.