Solar Power Generation Project is Approved by Las Virgenes – Triunfo JPA

This press release was provided by the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District.

The Las Virgenes-Triunfo Joint Powers Authority (JPA) has entered into an agreement with SolarCity to purchase power generated from an array of solar panels to be installed adjacent to Las Virgenes Municipal Water District Headquarters in Calabasas within the next year. Power produced will be used to pump recycled water through a portion of the JPA’s distribution system.

“This project provides significant, long-term financial benefits and makes use of environmentally-friendly energy to distribute a recycled resource," said Michael McReynolds, Chair of the JPA Board. "We believe it’s a giant step forward in our commitment to projects that are cost-effective and demonstrate environmental stewardship.”

Under the agreement, SolarCity will construct, operate and maintain the solar panel array. The JPA has contracted to purchase power from SolarCity at a fixed price significantly below the rates currently charged by Southern California Edison. At current Edison rates, savings are projected to be approximately $122,000 per year and over $2 million through the 20-year term of the solar power purchase agreement. The projected savings could be larger if Edison’s rates increase more than expected.

Council members at last week's City Council meeting voiced their approval of the project following a formal presentation.

"Its a great use of the property and potential savings for the rate-payer," Mayor Fred Gaines said from the dais.

Charles Caspary, Vice Chair of the JPA Board characterizes the project as a “win-win.”

“Not only are there significant cost savings, but solar power will be available during times of peak demand for both recycled water and electricity. In the past, we were subject to peaking charges from Edison; the use of solar power will reduce or eliminate that cost.”

Power generated by the array will not meet all of the demand for the recycled water pump station. The JPA will remain connected to Edison for supplemental and lower-cost off-peak power.

The solar array will occupy approximately six acres on the east side of Las Virgenes Road between LVMWD Headquarters and the Rancho Las Virgenes Composting Facility. Landscaping and existing terrain will screen much of the array from view; only a portion of the finished project may be visible from the road. JPA staff is also working with neighboring Calabasas residents to ensure there’s a full understanding of the project’s placement and appearance.

David W. Pedersen, Administering Agent and General Manager for the JPA said the solar project reflects the region’s values.

“Residents of the JPA’s service area have time and again demonstrated their commitment to the environment. The project achieves two important goals: reducing the demand for non-renewable energy and supporting the expanded use of recycled water. We believe this is a project the community can point to with pride.”

The JPA is comprised of Las Virgenes Municipal Water District and Triunfo Sanitation District. It provides wastewater treatment, recycled water and biosolids composting to residents of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Oak Park, Westlake Village and portion of Thousand Oaks, in addition to unincorporated surrounding areas of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.