Do You Know What You Are Missing in Southern Nevada? 12) Solar Power

A Las Vegas neighborhood house using a PV system.  (www.jillpaigehomes.com)

12) Solar Power: Solar Energy an Abundant Source in the Las Vegas Valley

(From 52 Reasons for Loving Life in Las Vegas)

By: Clairin DeMartini

12) Solar Power: I am the mother of two children. Their young minds are fascinating and their nature is curious. As evening approaches they ask, “Did the sun go down? Did I miss the sunset?” We look out onto the horizon, over the Spring Mountains of Red Rock Cliffs, I reply, “There is the sunset, but do not worry, the sunrise will be back in the morning.” They smile and wonder.

Do Not Miss Solar Power in Use Statewide: Homes, Businesses and Utilities

Sunny days are abundant in Las Vegas, I know my prediction is solid. With an average of 300 sunny days equating to 3,800 hours annually of sunshine, Southern Nevada is an ideal location to tap into solar power. The Las Vegas Sun reported on February 19, 2014 the approved construction plans proposed by the Department of Interior for a 250-megawatt solar facility located near Primm, Nevada. The facility foresees service to 80,000 homes per year. A little closer to home, drive along Valle Verde Drive and 215 Beltway and view Congregation Ner Tamid’s largest solar project for a non-profit in Henderson, NV (Las Vegas Sun’s Jackie Valley reported on November 17, 2013). The Las Vegas Valley Water District has 6 solar projects producing 3.0 megawatts. Across the valley and throughout the state of Nevada, you will see solar energy projects using photovoltaic (PV) systems to convert sunlight into an electric current using the photoelectric effect.

Do Not Miss the Opportunities to Be a Part of Solar Power

Nevada is ranked as one of the best locations for solar energy investment. Look at the resources available in Southern Nevada! You can benefit in many ways with solar power options across the valley.

• Renewable Generations Programs are available from Nevada Energy. In 2012, the total solar power capacity in watts per capita was 122.9 placing it third in the nation. Incentive programs for NV Energy customers assist installation costs of renewable energy systems such as Solar PV, Solar Space Heating, Solar Water Heating, and Solar Pool Heating.
• Learn about Nevada’s state solar policy with the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) report. Find information about the solar industry, Nevada legislature, incentives and much more.

There is a bright future in renewable solar energy for Nevada; keep watching the US solar market boom right here in Clark County. In 2012, the services from Ernst & Young reported Nevada as one of the top 5 U.S. states that installed solar electric capacity and a leader in cumulative solar capacity for the year.