City of Alpharetta, Wills Park Pool

Alpharetta, GA. December, 6, 2010. The City of Alpharetta just installed its first Solar Photovoltaic (PV) array on the rooftop of Wills Park Pool on Old Milton Highway (west of GA 400 and Highway 9). The Array, 3.84 kW, utilizes local solar panel technology, and will save 110 tons of CO2 over the next 25 years, the equivalent of 220,800 vehicle miles. “This is an exciting moment for the City of Alpharetta and a logical next step in our efforts to be a greener, more sustainable community,” said Arthur Letchas, Mayor of Alpharetta. “By using the sun’s energy to provide power to one of our most frequented recreation facilities, we hope to educate our citizens on this effective way to more wisely use our resources.”

Wills Park Pool is a 50 meter pool, open to the public from Memorial day to Labor Day. The pool is home to the Alpharetta Sharks Swim Team, 250-300 kids participate and the City of Alpharetta Swim Team (C.O.A.S.T.), with 40-60 kids participating. The Sharks host 3 swim meets per season. In addition, betwee 700-750 kids participate in swim lessons and the pool sells anywhere from 150-250 pool passes each year to local families. 2010 it had more than 19,000 people pay gate fee’s to enter the pool. “Our goal is to not only use the power of solar array generates, but to be in the forefront, educating our community about the benefits of renewable energy,” said Mike Perry, Director of the Recreation and Parks Department.

Employing renewable solar energy is a perfect endeavor for the City of Alpharetta; this project advances and supports. Georgia’s technology and creates new jobs for Georgians,” Chuck Martin, an Alpharettta native, serving his fourth term in the Georgia State House of Representatives, and Chair of the Energy and Environment Committee of The Council of State Governments’ Southern office. “This is just the start, it is my hope that Alpharettans see the value of renewable energy throughout the city.”

The City of Alpharetta’s solar investment sets an example as a cleaner, greener way to power a community area facility. Alpharetta-based United Renewable Energy expanded its workforce to maintain a commitment to developing skilled labor in the communities it services.

• 3.8 kW PV System

• Produces 5,385 kWh annually

• Utilizes Georgia technology solar panels

• Microinverters

• 220,800 vehicle miles offset

• 110 tons of CO2 prevented