Caltrans Solar Project Supports Local Business, Green Economy

SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Caltrans, Green Earth Engineering Corporation and Earth Electric announced today that a new photovoltaic power system at the Caltrans maintenance facility in Monterey, CA went live yesterday and began producing renewable energy.  The 9.6 Kilowatt system was installed in early July and completed final inspections last week.

"We are thrilled to be a part of the green energy movement," said Caltrans District 5 Director Rich Krumholz, who added that more solar panels on buildings in Santa Cruz, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, Buellton and Santa Barbara are forthcoming. "Our small business outreach was an important aspect of the effort. Supporting the California green economy not only helps our state but the success of this project encourages further growth."

The system contract was awarded to a local partnership between Green Earth Engineering Corporation and Earth Electric, both of San Jose, CA, who successfully completed the Caltrans bidding process.

"There is a great deal of planning and preparation with every solar project," said Angelo Perez, a California licensed civil engineer and CEO of Green Earth Engineering Corporation. "Every bid that is awarded to local business not only supports the local economy but serves to educate and improve the process for everyone involved, including engineers, installers and inspectors.  This was a well executed project and we are extremely proud of the effort and opportunity to work with Caltrans."

Despite a state law that allows public agencies to forego the bidding process for energy-related contracts, Caltrans opted to take the project out to bid. Many consultants and industry experts agree that the process can be complicated but well worth the effort when dealing with public money.

"As a solar instructor and installation vendor, projects like this provide a wealth of experience," said Matthew Welch, president of Earth Electric and solar instructor at San Jose City College. "My company is stronger, local installers gain experience and my students benefit from first-hand knowledge of the solar bid and installation process. The positive effects of local government agencies supporting local green businesses are felt long after the project is complete."

About Green Earth Engineering Corporation

Green Earth Engineering Corporation provides solar system design, solar installation, engineering and general electrical services.  The company promotes the use of green technology in every project with a goal of helping save the environment. Our core team provides civil engineering expertise and is committed to maintaining low overhead that is then passed on to our clients. For more information, visit www.greenearth-usa.com or email [email protected].

About Earth Electric

Earth Electric is a NABCEP-certified, licensed and bonded electrical contracting company specializing in renewable energy solutions including solar installation and consulting.  As experts in solar power, Earth Electric was founded with the intention of furthering the industry through education, green technology promotion and a commitment to quality solar installation. For more information, visit www.earth-electric.com or email [email protected].

About Caltrans

Caltrans manages more than 45,000 miles of California's highway and freeway lanes, provides inter-city rail services, permits more than 400 public-use airports and special-use hospital heliports, and works with local agencies. Caltrans carries out its mission of improving mobility across California with six primary programs: Aeronautics, Highway Transportation, Mass Transportation, Transportation Planning, Administration and the Equipment Service Center.

The Department has been active in moving the people and commerce of California for more than 100 years from a loosely connected web of footpaths and rutted wagon routes to the sophisticated transportation system that today serves the transportation needs of more than 39 million residents.

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Matthew Welch

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SOURCE Earth Electric