Downtown Library Features MASSIVE Rooftop Solar Panel Canopy
Austin, Texas is a city know for progressive thinking, so when the new Central Library was unveiled at the end of 2017, it was no surprise that it featured a solar power roof overlooking the Colorado River.
Dubbed the “Library of the Future,” the facility uses modern technology that is green and cost-effective, including rainwater collection and daylight-sensitive electronic window shades. The library’s parking garage even has dedicated parking for electric vehicle (EV) drivers and 10 charging stations!
Solar panels being installed atop the Central Library during construction stage – Credit: Sustainable Austin Blog
Solar Panels At Austin’s Central Library
Satellite view of Austin’s solar powered Central Library
The library’s 182 kW-DC solar power system is one of the largest in downtown Austin. It’s comprised of three different arrays that use over 500 solar panels in total.
“As a solar inspector for Austin Energy, it has always been my desire to see more buildings incorporate solar in their designs. It helps to promote clean energy and allows more efficient use of our resources.” -Austin Energy Inspector David Burgos
View from the rooftop garden. Image credit: Austin Public Library on Flickr
One of the most beautiful features of the library is the rooftop garden located outside the facility on the upper most public level. This section showcases a green roof with living plants, stunning views of the Colorado River, and a canopy using translucent solar panels that allow sunlight to pass through their cells onto the ground below.
Environmental Friendliness In Austin
Under their Climate Protection Plan, the City of Austin has committed to producing 55% of local power requirements using renewable resources like solar energy by 2025. Additionally, all City of Austin facilities, fleets, and operations will be made totally carbon-neutral by 2020.
The City has also installed over 400 EV charging stations around town to ease the ‘range anxiety’ that drivers may fear while driving electric. Under the Plug-In Austin Program, EV drivers can pay $4.17/month and get unlimited charging at all of the public charging stations around town.
Austin Energy $2,500 Dollar Solar Power Rebate
Austin-ites who go solar can take advantage of the Austin Energy Solar Rebate program, under which homeowners can receive up to $2,500 dollars worth of incentives toward the cost of installing solar panels on a residence.
Alba Energy is proud to be one of the premier solar installers in Texas with offices throughout the state. Learn more about saving with a solar panel installation on your Austin home or business by contacting Alba Energy of Austin to schedule a free solar energy consultation.
With SMART Solar Financing from Alba Energy you can POWER your home with solar panels, pay LESS on electricity bills, and contribute to a CLEAN energy future. Request a FREE solar consultation today!
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