SCHOTT Solar high performance panels recently helped the Albuquerque International Sunport reach a significant milestone on its solar energy system, capacity of 1 MW after adding more than 1,750 high performance SCHOTT Solar panels. Affordable Solar of Albuquerque managed and installed the solar energy system, which was integrated into a canopy providing shaded parking at the airport’s garage.

“Albuquerque is home to a growing solar industry, therefore it was essential that we work with a local manufacturer,” said David Hughes, President and CEO of Affordable Solar. “SCHOTT is not only a local manufacturer, but also produces panels that are among the highest-performing available, backed by more than 50 years of experience in the solar industry." Affordable Solar also worked with multiple local small businesses and construction trades, including B&D Industries and National Roofing, on the project.

“We are proud to participate in the Sunport solar system project. It's a great example of a successful renewable energy project outfitted by a leading local service provider and high quality, locally-made solar energy products,” said Tom Hecht, President of SCHOTT Solar PV, Inc. “This system sustained local jobs in manufacturing and services, and will help Albuquerque save money and reduce its impact on the environment over the long term.”

The solar-integrated parking canopy system is expected to generate 600,000 kWh annually and save the City of Albuquerque $30,000 in annual energy costs. The renewable energy sector and clean manufacturing, which includes solar panels, created 27 percent of the total 35,800 new green jobs in New Mexico in 2011.

The newest solar energy system for Sunport was the third developed under a multi-year initiative to reduce energy costs and provide a hedge against volatile fossil-fuel energy costs. Sunport utilized the VALE (voluntary airport low emissions) Federal Aviation Agency grant as part of the latest project financing.