South Capitol Rail Runner Station to Generate Its Own Electricity

MRCOG Installing Photovoltaic System at South Capitol Station

(Albuquerque, NM – April 10, 2009)- The Mid-Region Council of Governments is installing a photovoltaic system at the South Capitol Rail Runner station that will generate enough electricity to power all the station’s electrical needs. The system includes roof-mounted photovoltaic modules on the shade structures and pole mounted modules, with a tracking system to keep those modules in optimal alignment with the sun.

 “We live in the perfect state to convert sunlight into electricity”, says Lawrence Rael, Executive Director of the Mid-Region Council of Governments. “This technology has emerged as a major power source due to its numerous environmental and economic benefits. It makes perfect sense to pair it with the New Mexico Rail Runner Express, which is also a clean, efficient and environmentally friendly system. ” adds Rael.

The system is designed to generate more than 11,000 KWh per year - enough to power the lighting and communication system of the station and parking area. The dollar cost associated with this adds up to between $3,000 and $5,000 worth of electricity per year. This is roughly the amount of energy used by two average-sized homes. Any additional electricity generated will be stored in the Public Service Company of New Mexico power grid. By reducing the use of traditionally generated electricity, it is estimated that the South Capitol photovoltaic system will also have the effect of reducing CO2 emissions by 15,600 pounds per year and save 4,400 gallons of water.

“The Department is constantly looking for new and innovative ways to save energy with the least amount of environmental impact and this system will do just that,” said Transportation Secretary Gary Girón. 

Construction on the system is scheduled to begin next week, with an anticipated completion date in May. The Rail Runner station will operate as usual during construction.

The system is being funded through a grant from the state’s Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department and managed by the MRCOG. The installation is being completed by Santa Fe-based company Positive Energy.

Contacts: 

• Augusta Meyers, MRCOG Communications Mgr. 505-239-8612, ameyers@mrcog-nm.gov
• S.U. Mahesh, NM Department of Transportation (505) 490-0976

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