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Fort Campbell in Kentucky has planned a 5MW solar project. For the 1.9MW first phase project, Eaton has entered into multiple contracts to provide engineering services, a solar inverter, and electrical distribution equipment. The solar project is expected to be completed in September 2015.
The U.S. Army aims to achieve its renewable energy goals and energy independence, so the authorization has launched a series of solar projects across the nation. The Fort Campbell project is a result of collaboration between the U.S. Department of Energy, the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, and Pennyrile Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation. Eaton received the contracts from Pennyrile, and will support the installation through EPC services as well as a range of electrical balance of system (BOS) solutions.
“The solar project at Fort Campbell will help address the presidential mandate for federal agencies to meet 20% of their electricity needs through renewable energy sources by 2020,” said John Stampfel, vice president and general manager, Electrical Engineering Services and Systems Division, Eaton. “With expert engineering resources and an expansive portfolio power management solution, Eaton is well positioned to help the U.S. Army’s achieve its net zero energy goal through the development of secure, domestic and renewable energy resources.”
The U.S. Army is leveraging a utility energy service contract (UESC) with Pennyrile and a $3.1 million state grant to implement the first phase of the renewable energy project at Fort Campbell.
Under the latest contract, Eaton will help maximize energy harvest and simplify maintenance through the provision of power management solutions, including: a Power Xpert® 1670kW solar inverter and direct-coupled, Cooper PowerTM series transformer; medium-voltage, metal-enclosed switchgear; 1000 Vdc Crouse-Hinds® series solar combiner boxes; B-Line® series cable tray solutions; and PVGard® web-based monitoring to oversee the power generated by the solar array. To enhance reliability and safety, Eaton will also provide construction services, electrical system commissioning and staff training.
(Photo Credit: Commons Wikimedia)