Solar to help power Green Line light rail

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IOC2_15SolarInnovative Power Systems has begun installing solar panels along the Green Line corridor. The Minnesota-based solar developer is building the facilities on four commercial rooftops. The Green Line solar project is within the Energy Innovation Corridor, an initiative promoting sustainable energy and transportation.

The $2.7 million project is being funded in part by a $1.9 million grant from Xcel Energy’s renewable development fund.

“This urban corridor now boasts one of the densest and most diverse concentrations of renewable energy, advanced energy efficiency programs, electric transportation and smart energy technologies in the region,” said St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman.

Several thousand solar panels will be installed on commercial real estate properties along University Avenue. TenKsolar manufactures the panels in Bloomington, Minnesota. The 967-kilowatt project will be the largest in the city to date.

“Suntide Commercial Realty is thrilled to have two of our historic office buildings on the Green Line selected for this solar installation,” said Denise Currie of Suntide Commercial Realty, Inc. “We are committed to sustainability and this solar installation will be the next step for our St. Paul properties, Court International and 1000 University.”

“We are committed to the St. Paul Midway as well as the success of the Energy Innovation Corridor through projects that promote sustainability and conservation,” said Jason Sklar, Metro Plains property manager. “We are excited to add solar renewable energy to our EnergyStar office building. Partnering with Innovative Power Systems was key to getting this project started.”

Innovative Power is celebrating 25 years as a Minnesota-based solar installer. The employee-owned construction company has completed over 1,000 renewable projects and is recognized as one of the Top U.S. Solar Contractors by Solar Power World Magazine (2013, 2014, 2015). The Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association recently recognized CEO Ralph Jacobson with its first Lifetime Achievement Award, a group he co-founded in 2007. For more information on solar power in Minnesota visit www.solar.mn.

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