Veterans Administration Still Going Greener

VA going greener with solar projects

System at North Hills center, costing $21 million, is one of 18.

12/03/2010 - The Sepulveda VA will install a $21 million solar-energy system as part of the Veterans Administration's effort to "green" its facilities nationwide, officials said Friday.

The solar project is one of 18 being installed at medical centers operated by the VA, which plans to spend about $200 million in federal stimulus money to create renewable- and efficient-energy systems at its facilities nationwide. Another $200 million is being invested in clean-energy generation and energy conservation.

In addition to the VA's Ambulatory Care Center in North Hills, the West Los Angeles Medical Center on Wilshire Boulevard will get a $16.4 million solar-energy system.

"We're very happy to have this project in the Valley," said Ross Manoukian, energy manager for the VA's health care system in Los Angeles. "Some veterans called me up and asked for solar technology. They are enthusiastic about the technology."

San Jose-based SunPower Corp. is slated to start installing the system next year at the 150-acre Sepulveda VA. Plans call for installing a 3.965 megawatt photovoltaic system that will generate 7.3 kilowatt hours of solar energy - enough to power about 2,900 homes a year. Solar panels will be installed on rooftops, over parking areas and on a 10-acre ground site, officials said.

The West Los Angeles facility will get a 2.875 megawatt plant with the same three components. {read rest}