NCFPD's solar systems continue to produce for taxpayers

FALLBROOK – Since the installation of six solar power systems across five sites four years ago, the North County Fire Protection District has saved hundreds of thousands of dollars for taxpayers in utility costs and greatly reduced its impact on the environment. The solar power systems were built and installed between 2014 and 2016 throughout Fallbrook and Bonsall.

Since the solar power systems went live, the district has offset 1,088,836,190-watt hours of electricity, which equates to savings of approximately $272,209 that can be reallocated to better serve the community.

Not only has this switch to solar power saved taxpayer dollars, but it has helped protect the environment. In quantitative terms, in 25 years, these solar systems will have offset 6,698,357 kilowatt hours of electricity from the grid, which is the equivalent of removing over 650 homes from the region, eliminating carbon dioxide emissions from 5,178,338 pounds of coal being burned.

"The climate crisis (being experienced in recent years) is causing more fires in California and the District's solar projects help reduce the impact of climate change and fires in the region," Daniel Sullivan, founder of Sullivan Solar Power, a local firm that installed the solar systems, said.

This thought was echoed by Fire Chief Steve Abbott, who said, "The district is doing everything within its power to remain frugal, while not compromising the safety and security of those who reside within our service area. This solar power system is an excellent example of our commitment to serving our constituents."

Submitted by North County Fire Protection District.