NYC's Javits Convention Center to Feature Rooftop Solar Panels
The New York Power Authority is administering the solar photovoltaic Request for Proposals on behalf of the Javits Center that seeks to select a developer to design, construct and own the solar PV system through a Power Purchase Agreement.
Solar panels are coming to the roof and sidewalk of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan, after New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced a call for developers to submit proposals for the installation of more than 4,000 panels that can generate up to 1.4 megawatts of renewable energy. That power generation will offset the building's electric load and work toward the goal of 50 percent of the state's electricity coming from renewable sources by 2030.
"New York is leading the nation with bold actions to advance renewable energy and spur economic growth that is bolstering communities across the state," Cuomo said. "Bringing solar power to one of the Empire State's most powerful economic engines will push us closer to our ambitious energy goals and further promote the importance of pursuing sustainable practices, helping us to build a cleaner, greener New York."
The New York Power Authority is administering the solar photovoltaic Request for Proposals on behalf of the Javits Center that seeks to select a developer to design, construct, and own the solar PV system through a Power Purchase Agreement. Responses to the solicitation are due by Sept. 7, 2018.
The project is estimated to offset more than 2.7 million pounds of carbon dioxide each year, which is equivalent to removing 262 cars from the road. As part of the proposed project, more than 4,000 panels would be hosted on the center's green roof and an additional street-level solar array would be constructed on 11th Avenue. The 6.75-acre green roof has become a sanctuary for area wildlife, and it provides building insulation and retains storm water to prevent the risk of flooding.
The Javits Center and NYPA conducted preliminary site assessments to identify the most feasible and appropriate locations to install solar PV systems. "The New York Power Authority and the Javits Center both understand the importance of a green environment and have made sustainable actions a long-standing priority," Gil C. Quiniones, NYPA's president and CEO, said. "This project, planned for a world-renowned convention facility, will bring increased visibility to the benefits of renewable energy technologies while helping realize significant cost savings at one of our most iconic gathering places in New York City."
"With the installation of our green roof and a robust energy conservation program, the Javits Center has become a model of sustainability for buildings nationwide, and this solar array project will build on that sustainable success," said Alan Steel, president and CEO of the convention center. "For more than 30 years, the Javits Center has supported New York's economy by hosting large-scale events that attract millions of visitors to the Empire State, and we are proud to have expanded that mission to support New York's environment as well. We are very excited to be working with NYPA on this solar installation, which will help to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and further improve the quality of life throughout our community."