Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority has issued a request for proposals for a 15-year ground lease to develop and operate solar photovoltaic (PV) power systems on the surface and rooftop parking lots at Anacostia, Cheverly, Naylor Road and Southern Avenue stations.
“Offering these Metro-owned sites for use as solar power stations will advance Metro’s commitment to sustainability while generating new revenue to support transit services and keep fares affordable,” said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Paul J. Wiedefeld.
The solar panels will be owned, operated, installed and maintained by a solar energy provider at no cost to Metro or taxpayers. Metro’s surface and rooftop parking garages provide optimal exposure for solar power, offering a rare opportunity in the Washington Region to generate up to 15,000,000 kWh of renewable energy annually, enough to power 1,500 single family homes for one year.
Installing new solar canopies will benefit Metro’s parking customers by providing shade and snow protection for the top level of parking garages, along with lighting improvements.
Solar panels are expected to be installed and supplying renewable energy by late 2020 or early 2021.
