Ironhouse Sanitary District Continues Commitment to Reduce Energy Costs
New 1.5 Megawatt Solar Photovoltaic System Expected to Save $16 Million
(OAKLEY, CA) Ironhouse Sanitary District is proud to confirm it has finalized a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with REC Power, increasing solar generation to help reduce annual energy costs. This PPA introduces an additional 1.5 Megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic system. Savings on energy costs are expected to reach $16 million for Oakley and Bethel Island wastewater services over the next 30 years.
Under this PPA, REC Power will own and operate the system for its full 30-year life cycle, allowing Ironhouse to receive the benefits of solar generation without the upfront capital cost of building the facility itself.
The solar photovoltaic system currently on site supports 42% of the energy needs of Ironhouse's wastewater treatment facility. The existing system was installed nearly 13 years ago and is currently providing 1.1 MW of solar. This new system will add 1.5 MW to the existing solar field.
Solar is one of the most sustainable and cleanest energy sources available to local communities. It uses little to no water and emits no noise, air pollutants or greenhouse gases. This makes it a great addition to Ironhouse's resource recovery and pollution prevention focus.
REC Power is an independent power producer, with nearly 30 years of experience providing clean power across multiple technologies, including solar, storage, fuel cells and more. That experience also underpins its strong track record of providing clean power to public agencies.
“Ironhouse is demonstrating exactly how public agencies can take control of their energy future, reducing costs while advancing sustainability goals,” said Robb Jetty, CEO of REC Power. “By combining proven solar technology with long-term energy planning, this project delivers reliable savings and meaningful environmental benefits for the community.”
Ironhouse's Board is confident that this additional solar power generation reflects their commitment to innovation, while directly benefiting customers and reducing our carbon footprint.
Ironhouse Board President Angela Lowrey confirms, "Energy costs are one of the largest utility expenses public wastewater agencies face annually. Expanding our already successful solar program enables us to lock in energy savings in an uncertain utility market for the long term. The signing of this PPA reflects the Board's commitment to adopting innovation to reduce costs to our customers while also protecting our environment."
The project is currently in design, with construction expected to begin in 2027 and the system is scheduled to begin supplying power in 2028.
