Pittsburgh to install first solar water heaters in fall
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The city plans its first solar energy installation at a firehouse this fall and is seeking bids from interested green-energy companies.
The Ravenstahl administration announced today that it plans to install solar panels to heat hot water at the No. 34 firehouse in Woods Run in October. The city is in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy on the initiative, and is working with Carnegie Mellon University to select five other city facilities for solar upgrades.
"This solar installation will eliminate the need to use natural gas to create hot water, reduce our carbon footprint, save money, and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels," Mr. Ravenstahl said in a prepared statement. He added that the project will allow employees to learn "green collar" skills that can be used on future projects.
With the help of a federal contractor the city's Sustainability and Energy Efficiency office will train city employees, including plumbers and building inspectors, on solar equipment maintenance.
First Published July 20, 2009 3:23 pm
