Gulfstream finishes construction of the largest rooftop solar array in the Savannah area
Developers now have more options for executing solar energy initiatives ever since technology became a consistent component of the energy industry. In previous years, companies could not execute their ambitious ideas, but nowadays there are no limitations. As such, there is much more room for companies to experiment with the projects that they pursue, especially for a country like the United States, which is recognized among the leading solar-producing nations. After several years of working, it was recently unveiled that Gulfstream finished construction of the largest rooftop solar array in the Savannah area.
Gulfstream continues to prove itself as a player in the clean energy industry
The clean energy industry has resulted in a variety of companies that are not directly focused on clean energy generation deciding to pursue groundbreaking projects. Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation is the latest one to join this list. Gulfstream is an American manufacturer of private jets that is headquartered in Savannah, Georgia.
It operates as a subsidiary of General Dynamics and has developed a reputation for its stand-out large-cabin airplanes. When a company like Gulfstream decides to pursue an energy initiative, it relies on companies that have experience and are actively involved in the energy sector.
In this case, Gulfstream collaborated with Cherry Street Energy. This is a leading renewable energy provider based in the southeastern United States. The Atlanta-based entity is known for owning, developing, and operating on-site solar power systems for large commercial and municipal customers, allowing them to purchase clean, reliable electricity with no upfront equipment costs.
Breaking barriers: Gulfstream finishes construction of the largest rooftop solar array
Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced that it has completed the latest solar installation at its Savannah-based Research and Development Campus (RDC), creating the largest rooftop solar portfolio in Chatham County, which is a massive achievement considering how competitive the contemporary landscape is.
According to reports, the RDC at Gulfstream’s worldwide headquarters now hosts five solar arrays that support 620,000 square feet of facility space, with the newest one being a 2,700-panel system on its RDC III building. Industry experts predict that the solar energy industry is only set to elevate further as technology continues to reach greater heights.
Atlanta-based Cherry Street Energy installed the rooftop system, which has a total generating capacity of 2.9 megawatts, producing more than 3 million kilowatt-hours of electricity per year.
The Cherry Street Energy business model uses an agreement similar to a traditional Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). In terms of the agreement, the company is expected to handle the costs associated with the project, own the system or keep ownership of the solar equipment, and sell the solar energy generated on-site back to the property owner.
Understanding the significance of the project for Gulfstream and Cherry Street Energy
In total, the project is said to have offset Gulfstream’s RDC electricity usage greatly and reduced any related emissions. Mark Burns, president of Gulfstream, stated the following:
“Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of Gulfstream’s business. We remain committed to helping advance business aviation’s sustainability mission while enriching our communities through environmental stewardship and support. The completion of these solar installations represents another meaningful step.”
At the heart of Gulfstream’s sustainability strategy is sourcing carbon-free electricity. This includes on-site solar generation and the use of verified renewable energy certificates. Gulfstream’s Mexicali, Mexico-based site, also uses solar panels to support renewable energy.
Reviewing Gulfstream’s overall position in the clean energy industry
Gulfstream has been perceived as a pioneer in sustainable aviation for several years. The company was the first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to fly on 100% neat sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and was also the first OEM to receive National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Sustainable Flight Department Accreditations in all four categories.
The four categories are, namely: flight, operations, ground support, and infrastructure. Gulfstream continues to pursue captivating initiatives.
Prince is a versatile writer focused on energy, automotive, environmental, and general news topics. He makes complex technical and policy issues clear, engaging, and accessible for a broad audience.
