rap #28 02/17/10
FREEHOLDERS SEEKING FEDERAL ENERGY GRANT TO BUILD SOLAR ENERGY CANOPY ON TOP OF THE COUNTY PARKING GARAGE
OCEAN COUNTY is ready to take a big step forward in its continuing “going green” alternative energy effort. Now all
it needs is a little help from Uncle Sam.
The Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders is seeking a $4 million federal grant to help fund a solar panel
canopy on the top level of the county parking garage off Hadley Avenue in downtown Toms River.
“Ocean County remains a leader in renewable energy use and other energy saving measures that reduce fossil fuel
consumption,” said Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari. “We were the first among New Jersey’s 21 counties to prepare a comprehensive
energy master plan and we are moving ahead with plans to add more alternative energy systems to our facilities.”
Vicari, who serves as Chairman of Buildings and Grounds and County Operations and Energy, said the newest project
would not only cut carbon emissions, but save tax dollars as well.
Conservative estimates show the network of solar panels would reduce annual greenhouse emissions equal to 54
passenger cars, 687 barrels of oil or the electricity consumed by 41 typical homes.
The solar canopy will save the county an estimated $254,900 annually, Vicari said.
“This is the largest alternative energy initiative in the county’s history,” Vicari said. “With the help of the federal
government we can continue our going green efforts.”
The estimated cost of the solar panels is $3.38 million. Any additional federal dollars would be used for a variety of
other energy upgrades at several county facilities.
“We have a $7.5 million supplemental energy conservation plan on the table right now,” Vicari said. “We also plan to replace
older systems with new energy efficient components. Every dollar we invest now will save us money down the road.”
Freeholder Director James F. Lacey said the parking deck is an ideal location for the solar panels.
“The garage is one of the highest buildings in Toms River and gets great sun all day,” Lacey said. “This project is another
innovative way we can help protect the environment and save money.”
Vicari said the county has already added solar panels to several other county buildings.
“We also continue to work closely with local municipalities and school districts that either already have alternative
energy systems in place or are looking to add solar and wind power to their buildings,” he said.
On February 24th the county will host an energy grants seminar for local governments interested in applying for federal
funding for their projects.
Sponsored by Rep. John Adler, the free daylong seminar begins at 9 a.m. in Toms River Town Hall then moves next door to
the Main Branch of the Ocean County Library.
Please call 856-985-2777 to register.
