INNOVATING FOR A SUSTAINABLE TOMORROW

Orange County Utilities is committed to sustainably delivering essential water, wastewater, and solid waste services. As envisioned in Orange County’s Sustainable Operations & Resilience Action Plan, our portfolio of solar array projects affirms this commitment by reducing our carbon footprint and lowering operational costs. Through the use of innovative solar solutions, we can continue to serve citizens and guests while preserving the natural resources in our beautiful community for years to come.

Southern Regional Water Supply Facility (SRWSF)

Floating solar array

The floating solar array at SRWSF covers two acres of a 3.6-acre pond, making it the largest of its kind in the southeastern United States. It consists of 2,236 solar panels, each roughly the size of a pool table. Altogether, the panels can produce 1.9 kilowatt-hours annually, helping to cut the facility’s energy costs by 25% and reducing 1,500 tons of CO₂ emissions each year. Installed on water to minimize the impact on land and wildlife, the array is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, including sustained winds up to 50 miles per hour and gusts reaching 130 miles per hour.

Northwest Water Reclamation Facility (NWRF)

Ground-mounted solar array

Strategically located on land not committed to future infrastructure expansion, this site showcases Orange County Utilities’ pilot project for ground-mounted solar. Construction of the two-megawatt solar installation began in 2019 and concluded in early 2024. The array will generate up to 60% of the facility’s power and save over $400,000 per year.

COMING SOON

Orange County Utilities is planning more solar array projects to offset energy demands, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and illuminate the path toward a brighter, more sustainable future. Check back for updates!