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NRG Energy and MGM Resorts International celebrated the completion of the world’s largest rooftop solar array, 6.4 MW DC (5 MW AC), on an approximately 20 acres rooftop atop the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Additional 2 MW DC (1.5 MW AC) PV array atop a future expansion of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center was announced in conjunction with the celebration.
“The completion of this solar array demonstrates our steadfast commitment to the principles of environmental responsibility, and the announcement of the second array reinforces that we’re always looking to do more,” Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International.
Once completed, the combined solar installation is expected to provide pricing stability and reduce energy draw from the southern Nevada grid during the hottest time of the day which is also peak electricity demand. The project is estimated to displace approximately 6,300 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), which is the equivalent of taking more than 1,300 cars off the road.
“The rooftop solar installation at Mandalay Bay significantly advances our resort’s commitment to being a leading sustainable destination for conferences and conventions,” said Chuck Bowling, President and COO of Mandalay Bay. “Partnering with NRG to achieve this milestone reinforces our commitment to promoting renewable energy and protecting the planet’s limited resources as supported by our Green Advantage sustainability initiative that has already decreased our energy load by over 14% since 2007.”
NRG financed, constructed, owns and operates the installation for MGM Resorts at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), Mandalay Bay Resort will purchase all the electricity generated by both solar arrays.