Johnson Controls recently completed the installation of new solar heating systems at seven indoor pools in El Paso, Texas.
The new systems, which are expected to save more than $1.5 million in energy costs from pool operations over the next 10 years, are ideal for one of the nation's sunniest cities, which averages more than 300 days of sunshine per calendar year.
More than 700 solar thermal panels, covering nearly 32,000 sq. ft., are now converting solar rays into hot water for municipal pools across the city.
The solar heating upgrades are part of an overall Energy Savings Performance Contract developed by Johnson Controls to help the city reduce escalating utility costs and improve aging infrastructure while improving air quality in the region.
"Renewable energy solutions will help the city more effectively manage energy usage while reducing costs and environmental impact," said Don Albinger, vice president of renewable energy solutions at Johnson Controls.
"The ideal climate and days of sunshine make the project a win for both city officials looking to realize cost savings, and for residents seeking a fun, environmentally friendly place to cool off."
In addition to the pools, the contract includes energy efficiency upgrades to 53 El Paso facilities and the conversion of 6,600 traffic lights to LED technology.
The $14.7 million project is expected to deliver operating and energy cost savings of $20.3 million over 10 years. It also will eliminate nearly 11,300 tons of air pollutants, reduce electricity consumption at facilities by 29 percent, and decrease electrical consumption by traffic lights by 84 percent.
Pools heated by the new solar systems include those at the Marty Robbins Recreation Center, Armijo Park Recreation Center and Pool, WW Cowan Recreation Center, Leo Cancellare Recreation Center, Hilos de Plata Senior Center and Pool, T and I Recreation Center, and Veterans Recreation Center.
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