The Spring Hill Recreation Center in McLean, Va., flipped the switch on a new roof-mounted solar array that operators says will generate enough power annually to power 33 homes and reduce the rec center's electricity needs by 13 percent.
“Turning the switch at this solar project represents another step in our journey away from fossil fuels and toward a more sustainable future,” John Morrill, director of Fairfax County’s Office of Environmental and Energy Coordination, said. “Not only will this solar array save money in electricity costs over time, it confirms the county’s commitment to meeting the goals in our Operational Energy Strategy.”
The project was adopted by the board of supervisors in July of 2021 as part of the county's Operational Energy Strategy, which lays out a path to carbon neutrality by 2040. By that time the county hopes to generate 50 percent of its electricity with renewable sources.
According to FFX Now, the solar panel launch represents a key step forward in a larger push by the FCPA to make the Spring Hill Rec Center more energy efficient. Under construction since July 2023, the project will also install a geothermal HVAC system, replace the pool’s dehumidification units, add LED lights and improve the building’s automation system.
Work on all of the improvements is expected to wrap up this summer.
“We decided, when it was time to make improvements to the rec center, that we would be intentional about installing fixtures and infrastructure that would minimize the impact on our environment, enhance user experience, and save money in the long run,” FCPA Director Jai Cole said. “This is doable, and it’s the right thing to do.”
