Air Force Using Solar Energy

Nellis Air Force Base Las Vegas, Nevada

On April 23 2007 Nellis Air Force base broke ground on the costruction on what was to be North America's largest solar photovaoltaic power system. This represents the cutting edge of solar power technology as is a perfect example of our armed services working to leave a more sustainable, environmentally friendly footprint.

Background:
Nellis Air Force Base is a revered training facility and the location of the U.S. Air Force Warfare Center. The base has been operational since the 1940s.

How It's Unique:
In 2007, officials at Nellis cut the red ribbon for North America's largest solar power plant at the time. More than 6 million solar cells are laced throughout 72,000 panels, feeding the base about 30 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy each year. Upping the eco-ante of the project is the fact that the solar farm is built atop a capped landfill. The Air Force estimated that the array would help it shed 24,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year, while saving upward of one million dollars.

Link to Nellis AFB Solar Page

More photos here

Link to the Popular Mechanics article