The total distributed solar capacity built by BEI Construction recently passed 200 megawatts (MWs). Our journey towards this milestone began in 2004, when we installed our first commercial photovoltaic (PV) array. Since then, we have completed more than 400+ distributed generation solar project sites. Adding up the capacity of our projects, we estimate their total potential output at 200 MWs—enough to power more than 38,000 homes.
“Distributed generation solar power makes a crucial contribution to renewable energy output globally,” says BEI President Mike Rantz. “The BEI Construction team is making a contribution to that output in California. We help our clients install the solar projects they envision and that their engineers design. At 200 MWs and growing, the total output of our projects reflects our commitment to building successful solar facilities of every size.”
Powering schools, cities, and more
From schools and BART stations to technology companies, cities, and even correctional facilities, BEI has installed solar infrastructure for many uses. These projects exemplify the benefits of distributed solar power for clients seeking to meet renewable energy goals. With distributed solar power, a non-utility organization—like a business, school, or city—installs a solar project with the intent of using the power generated in day-to-day operations.
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), more than 18% of the power generated in California in 2017 came from solar—making California the nation’s top solar producer. The SEIA also estimates that prices for solar have fallen by more than 40% over the last 5 years. Recent advances in power storage have further increased returns on investments in solar by making it practical to store power generated during the day and use it at night. Many BEI solar projects include power storage.
“There is no typical distributed generation project,” says Rantz. “Projects might be as large as 6+ MWs or smaller than 1 MW. But our clients share a common commitment to using renewable energy. Each year we’re seeing more solar projects—and wind too. The BEI team is excited to continue playing a role in the expanding the generation and use of solar power in the Bay Area and California.”
Visit the BEI Construction projects webpage to learn more about specific projects.