Winston-Salem prepares first solar panel project for city-owned buildings

The City of Winston-Salem is investing in solar power to help meet future clean energy goals. The first project is slated for one of its main downtown facilities.

Solar panels will be installed on the roof of the Bryce A. Stuart Municipal Building. It's part of an initiative to grow sustainability and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Mayor Allen Joines and City Council approved a resolution in 2020 that focuses on city operations. The goal is to use 50% clean and renewable energy for its buildings and vehicle fleets where feasible by 2030 with a complete transition to clean and renewable in all city operations by 2050.

Helen Peplowski is the sustainability director for the City of Winston-Salem. She says the project is an important first step.

“We are stepping up and adding to that skyline, that Winston-Salem skyline. We are putting our solar in a downtown location partially for that reason, to really make our footprint visible and I'm really excited to see what else it leads to," says Peplowski.

The city has earmarked over $250,000 for solar installation for its facilities. The plans include a visual display at the building to bring awareness and education to visitors about the new solar project.

As for energy savings, Peplowski says the city estimates the project will save around 110,000-kilowatt hours annually.

Installation is expected to take place by the end of the year.

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