Benicia Climate Action Plan- Solar Energy

Why Solar Energy?

The sun’s energy can be harnessed for heat and electricity production. Electricity is generated by ‘solar cells,’ also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, which convert solar energy from the sunlight into electricity. The use of PV technology can be developed into large-scale plants or small-scale localized energy production facilities.

What the City is Doing

In 2008, the City commissioned the consulting firm HDR to conduct a wind analysis for select water and wastewater treatment facilities. The study concluded that a 250 kW turbine at the water treatment plant could supply 37 percent of the plant’s annual electricity demand. In addition, the study found that two pump stations are potentially viable sites for wind turbines, although a detailed analysis of these sites was not included in the scope of this study.

What You Can Do

Participate in the California Solar Initiative

The California Solar Initiative is a rebate program supported by the State of California to offer financial incentives to residents and businesses for installing solar panels.

Visit our resource page for residents and businesses

To learn about more financial incentive programs for alternative energies visit the residents resource page and the business resource page.

Protect your solar panels from theft

Solar panels are a worthwhile investment. Unfortunately, solar panels have become a prime target for thieves. Alliant Insurance has published a guide on protecting your solar panels from theft that can be found here.