Did you know that the largest solar farm in the state of Missouri is located right here in Springfield? City Utilities contracted for the construction of the 4.95 megawatt (AC) renewable energy project in 2013, and began receiving the energy in July 2014. Although this energy is still more expensive than that from traditional sources, it diversifies the utility’s generation portfolio.
So, why does that matter? The easiest answer – the utility today is dealing with unprecedented changes in the electric industry. Current and future environmental regulations, and our changing market, are forcing the utility to look at lower carbon resources and changing the way we have generated electricity for decades.
[thumbnail link=”https://www.cityutilities.net/renewable/rnw-solar.htm” target=”_self” alt=”City Utilities of Springfield Solar Farm” src=”https://dev.springfieldhba.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/CU-Solar-Farm-900.jpg”]
This sounds great, right? Certainly generating power with cleaner sources is good for everyone. It has always been the utility’s responsibility to make sure that the energy delivered to your home or business is consistent and reliable. With more and more renewables online, that creates some challenges. After all, the sun doesn’t always shine and the wind doesn’t always blow.
To balance all of these variables, City Utilities is looking at all of our resources to make sure your lights stay on and our economy remains healthy. And one of those resources is you! Energy efficiency and demand side management will likely play a larger role in the future. We are looking forward to working with you to meet these challenges head-on, and to keep our community connected.
This post brought to you by City Utilities of Springfield.
