According to the latest annual report on solar energy in American cities by Environment America Research and Policy Center, Las Vegas ranks seventh in solar energy supply per capita and 10th in total supply.
Solar Energy Center
Indeed, those who live there can take a breath because when solar power is in question, Las Vegas seems to be betting big on solar energy. Like in any other type of betting, some people believed in this solar center from the very beginning. The city of Las Vegas is known to be sustainable, using renewable power sources, and working hard towards a secure future, energy-wise. And it has to, it’s a city of lights, one that never sleeps, with restaurants, casinos, hotels and other entertainment venues. It wouldn’t paint a pretty picture if your Jennifer Lopez live show in Zappos Theatres faded into pitch darkness suddenly or that your jackpot hit payout would stop abruptly.
The city of Las Vegas, as well as the State of Nevada, holds a particular reputation when it comes to renewables, as well as energy efficiency savings. Earlier this summer, the energy developer Invenergy announced its newest development – the MGM Resorts Mega Solar Array – a 640-acre field in the desert near Las Vegas with solar panels. The city has already supplied more than 164 watts per person of solar power, more than nearby cities like Phoenix and Los Angeles.
Smart Policy Decisions
Sustainability is a big part of every business and economy today, as it is the only “solution” that could lead us all on the right path. First, however, we must be mindful of spending our resources, and the Las Vegas city authorities know it.
The renewable energy resources and energy efficiency savings are estimated to save the city around $5 million per year! In addition, the policy decisions brought by the city administration and state regimen fuels the progress, making this State more and more sustainable each year.
More Than Just Nevada
Las Vegas receives 100 percent of its energy from renewable sources. The city accomplished this goal more than five years ago, and it seems going back is not part of the plan.
In the recent reports, Las Vegas ranked seventh in solar energy supply per capita and 10th in total energy supply. However, according to the report, Honolulu ranked first for solar power per capita while Los Angeles “won” first place for full installed capacity.
Many states are turning to more sustainable management and the overall economy. Also, there is good cooperation between the states. For example, as part of an agreement to balance power supply and demand in the Western United States, Nevada’s power company shares energy with neighbouring states.
Remember the Turtles
As in any other policy field, there always comes when things can’t go as planned. As it seems, The Battle Born Solar Project in Nevada – what would have been the biggest solar farm in the States – has been cancelled because the residents of the nearby area made complaints against the building project.
Also, let’s not forget when 139 tortoises were moved across rural Nevada through the desert road to make way for the Yellow Pine Solar project, and thirty of them got killed during the five weeks of messy badgers’ work.
It is great to have a “great solar reputation.” However, what matters evenly are the animals, plants, and people that live in these areas. Sustainability also means balance.
