The East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) takes a significant stride towards combating climate change and advancing sustainability initiatives with the inauguration of its largest solar array, the Orinda Photovoltaic Solar Energy Project (Orinda PV). Amidst its centenary celebrations, EBMUD reinforces its commitment to a sustainable future by tripling its solar energy production capacity through three new photovoltaic (PV) installations.
Situated below Briones Reservoir in Orinda, the Orinda PV project is now operational, poised to generate approximately 10 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean, renewable electricity annually. With a capacity of 4.6 megawatts (MW), this installation is anticipated to offset 10 percent of EBMUD’s current energy costs.
Partnering with TotalEnergies, a global multi-energy company with a significant U.S. renewable energy portfolio, EBMUD spearheaded the development of the Orinda PV project. This collaboration not only delivers environmental benefits through zero-emissions electricity production but also ensures energy cost savings of $26 million over the 25-year contract term, benefiting EBMUD ratepayers.
EBMUD General Manager, Clifford Chan, hails the Orinda PV project as a pivotal milestone in the utility’s clean energy journey, emphasizing its alignment with EBMUD’s mission to provide safe and affordable drinking water while prioritizing environmental stewardship. Chan underscores the importance of investing in a sustainable future for current and future generations.
In addition to the Orinda PV project, EBMUD boasts other renewable energy endeavors, including hydroelectric, biogas, and existing PV projects, totaling 40 MW, 11 MW, and 2 MW, respectively. Furthermore, the utility has 210 kW of additional PV projects under development.
Eric Potts, Vice President of TotalEnergies Renewables USA, commends EBMUD’s commitment to clean energy and sustainability goals, highlighting the pivotal role of solar power in achieving such objectives while reducing long-term energy costs.
EBMUD’s dedication to combating climate change is evident through its sustainable practices, support for renewable energy projects, and investments in infrastructure aimed at serving the vibrant communities under its purview.
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