The Postal Service has completed the installation of a state-of-the-art solar power generation system at the Los Angeles Processing and Distribution Center.
The 13-megawatt direct current system, comprised of approximately 35,000 solar panels that cover 23 acres, makes the facility the largest installation generating electricity through solar energy in Los Angeles.
By itself, the system generates enough power to support more than 2,400 households and avoids emissions that equate to taking 2,000 cars off the road annually.
Additionally, the solar panels that are mounted on the facility’s carport canopies provide shade for employee and customer vehicles, lowering temperatures as much as 7 degrees compared to the open air.
Through an agreement with the installer, the new system is providing USPS with solar energy equivalent to 6 percent of the facility’s consumption. This 20-year agreement is worth more than $10 million in savings and lease revenue to the Postal Service.
“This system allows the Postal Service to support its energy consumption needs while generating new revenue from excess production,” Facilities VP Tom Samra said. “This effort provides financial benefits to the Postal Service while reducing our impact on the environment.”
The program is part of a Facilities initiative to reduce energy consumption and generate positive returns for USPS.
Similar projects are expected at other postal facilities.
