Health & Fitness
Solar On
Largest solar-energy array in the State of Washington is being installed on the roof of Qwest field and will reduce the electrical usage by 21% and help keep the building cool in the summer.
In another great example of using good business sense to save money, reduce environmental impact and gain good PR, Qwest Field will soon have the largest solar array in the State of Washington.
Funded by Paul Allen's Seahawks, Sounders and First and Goal, the US made solar tubing is expected to reduce the electrical usage by 21% and help keep the Event Center cooler in the summer.
The panels are made of "the latest thin-film technology, capturing both direct and reflected light in a cylindrical glass tube." (Seattle Times May 18, Section B page 1). When complete there will be 3,750 panels generating 830,000 KWH of electricity annually and cover most of the 2.5 acres of roof space. (Seattle Times online)
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According to a King 5 news report "There is a friendly competition underway in the sports world to find the greenest, most efficient and cheapest way to power professional stadiums."
The manufacturer, California based Solyndra claims once the panels are in place they can withstand winds up to 850 mph and hail. Our frequent rain helps keep them clean for greater efficiency.