VA Funds Solar Energy Projects at 5 Hospitals to Promote Innovation, Create Jobs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded $56.7 million in contracts to build solar photovoltaic systems in support of ongoing energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives.

“With these investments in clean energy and other renewable energy projects, we are marching forward with the President’s initiative to expand innovation in the federal government and create new jobs,” said VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki. “The benefits of using solar power are profound, from reducing greenhouse gas emissions to improving the quality of the air we breathe. This initiative is good for Veterans and good for our environment.”

By summer 2012, solar PV systems will be installed at five VA medical centers in sunny locations, from Texas to California. VA selected the sites based on feasibility studies that determined the most ideal locations to invest in onsite renewable energy projects.

Solar PV installations are slated for Oklahoma City; Temple, Texas; Amarillo, Texas; Loma Linda, Calif. and West Los Angeles. 

The goal is to increase renewable energy consumption to 15 percent of annual electricity usage by 2013. The installation of these five solar PV systems will help VA meet that goal. Renewable energy projects such as solar PV and wind turbines provide free energy to power VA facilities and provide a variety of benefits.

VA has also awarded 35 additional solar PV systems at medical centers and national cemeteries across the nation. It has invested more than $300 million in renewable energy projects since 2009. Information on these ongoing projects can be found at green.va.gov.