FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2025
Solar System On New Bypass Fire Station is Complete and In Service!
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - The City of Charlottesville is proud to announce the completion of a 31 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftop array at the new Bypass Fire Station on Route 250. This renewable energy generation system is an exciting element of an important public facility that has been designed and constructed with numerous high-performance, green building elements.
This project joins a portfolio of onsite solar projects that the City has been installing since 2012 and is the second solar system on a Charlottesville fire station. It demonstrates the City’s continued commitment to clean energy and climate action and the pursuit of community climate goals of 45% reduction by 2035 and carbon neutrality by 2050.
The solar array consists of 68 panels with projected onsite power generation of 40,395 kWh annually. This amount of power generation will account for 42% of the building’s energy consumption, reducing both the carbon footprint of the building and its electricity bills. The system includes remote online monitoring capabilities and controls that will give facility staff insight into the systems performance.
“We are excited that solar is included on this project right from the beginning so we can operate as a clean energy facility from the time the doors open.” says Charlottesville Fire Chief Michael Thomas
“We have set ambitious climate goals and projects like this are important to our progress. It’s great to be able to share this climate action update with the community!” adds Charlotteville Sustainability Director Kristel Riddervold
This project was funded through the City’s Capital Improvement Program. The City plans to pursue federal tax credits for this eligible clean energy project. This highlights Charlottesville’s commitment to responsibly advancing climate and sustainability goals.
Stay tuned for information regarding a Bypass Fire Station Open House! A video of the recent ribbon-cutting for the project is available for viewing online (link).
For more information and resources about the Solar Renewable Energy in Charlottesville, including opportunities for residential solar, visit www.charlottesville.gov/solar. For more information about the City’s Climate Program, visit www.charlottesville.gov/climate.
Media Contact
Will Broscious
Deputy Fire Chief
City of Charlottesville
434-981-8888
brosciousw@charlottesville.gov