The solar array located east of the Superior Wastewater Treatement plant has been in operation long enough to have allowed the collection of a full year’s worth of data. Thus far the results look good.
Monday evening the operation was reviewed by members of the Superior City Council.
Larry Brittenham, utility department manager, said the solar power generated locally contributed to the 2.2 percent average reduction of electric rates that took effect on Oct. 1.
Further savings are expected to be obtained this year as the utility department continues toward the goal of switching electric suppliers. Currently, the city expects to purchase only 10 percent of its electric power from the Nebraska Public Power District.
In 2019, the Nebraska Public Power District supplied 28 percent of the city utility’s electric power. The solar array contributed 6.9 percent cent. The city’s share of hydroelectric power produced primarily by Missouri River dams contributed 10.4 percent. The city utility purchased 54.6 per cent of the electricity needed from a private generator known as 54.6 percent.
As designed, the solar installation produced the most power during the summer months.
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