Honeywell has installed the first of two solar photovoltaic arrays for the city of Wilmington, Delaware, U.S. The solar installations, which will consist of almost 3400 panels, are part of a broader US$14.5 million energy retrofit and renewable-energy program that will decrease utility costs and greenhouse-gas emissions tied to city-owned facilities and infrastructure.

The energy improvements will reduce electricity consumption by an estimated 2.8 million kWh per year. The program will also decrease carbon-dioxide emissions by nearly 4.4 million pounds each year. According to figures from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this is equivalent to removing more than 380 cars from the road.

The city will pay for the entire program from the energy savings the upgrades produce. Honeywell guarantees roughly $1.14 million in savings per year under a 20-year performance contract. The improvements also are expected to generate $16 million in savings above the guaranteed amount over the course of the contract.

The first solar array is expected to generate 650,000 kWh of electricity annually and cover nearly 25% of the load at the plant. Honeywell will construct a second roof-mounted array at the Public Works Yard and Municipal Complex, which will add 300,000 kWh of renewable energy. This array will be financed by a Clean Renewable Energy Bond from the Department of Treasury.

For more information, visit www.honeywell.com.