EPB said today it has begun seeking proposals from qualified contractors to build the first of two community solar power generation facilities the utility plans to build in Chattanooga.
EPB, in partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority, plans to build its first solar array in the Bakewell community in northern Hamilton County. Construction for the Solar Share project should begin this summer.
A second community solar project is planned near an EPB site in Chattanooga. EPB Vice President J. Ed. Marston said program organizers are looking at locating a 4.5-acre solar garden or solar farm on one of its lots off of Holtzclaw Avenue.
When both sites become operational, the project is expected to have a combined 1.35 megawatt generation capacity, which is enough power to meet the needs of approximately 200 houses.
“We encourage qualified solar contractors to submit their proposals, and we look forward to working together to provide our customers with a reliable, environmentally-friendly energy source,” EPB President David Wade said in announcing the contractor solicitation today. “Community solar power generation is a next step toward further enhancing the value of high-quality, reliable electric power delivered by the community’s smart grid.”