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Most people know that renewable power sources like solar, wind and hydropower (water) are considered "fuels of the future." After all, these fuel sources are clean, renewable, natural and pollution free. However, few businesses, communities and residents realize they can play an important role in speeding the development and adoption renewable energy sources. As Arizona’s leading producer of electrical power, APS is looking to change that.

APS’ Project Sol and APS Solar Partners are two programs designed specifically to increase public awareness on the research, use and availability of solar power. Project Sol (Solar Outreach and Learning) is an educational resource for students and adults who want to learn more about the sun, energy and solar technology.

As part of APS’ Project Sol, the company has donated and installed five new photovoltaic solar rooftop systems at the following public educational sites:

  • Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior    
  • Challenger Learning Center in Peoria    
  • Lake Pleasant Desert Outdoor Center    
  • Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff    
  • Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott

According to APS Solar Programs Manager Cassius McChesney, solar energy information is taken from the rooftop systems and fed directly into the APS’ Project Sol website providing students of all ages an opportunity to monitor and research how solar electric power systems work.

APS’ other solar program, Solar Partners , gives APS customers a chance to request that a portion of their existing electrical power needs be met through solar power. For an additional $2.64 a month, APS customers can buy 15 kilowatt-hour blocks of electrical energy produced by APS solar power plants.

According to McChesney, the nearly 2,500 APS Solar Partners receive a Sol Mates newsletter, invitations to attend open house events and other member benefits. "However, the main advantage of becoming a Solar Partner is contributing to the development of solar power as a safe, renewable and affordable energy option," he said.

April 20, 2001

Learn more about APS' solar programs.