The Dominican Republic targets at reducing impact of climate change as well as its dependence on fossil fuels by adopting more solar systems. To support this goal, KYOCERA Solar installed a 70.2kW rooftop solar PV array for Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM) in cooperate with Retecsa S.A. de CV.

The 70kW Kyocera Solar array, comprising 270 Kyocera’s 260W PV modules, is estimated to produce 83,000kWh annually, with a carbon impact equal to avoiding 57 metric tons of CO2 being released into the atmosphere. The power generation will also help the university cut its electricity fees. With electricity prices in the Dominican Republic averaging $0.21/kWh, many commercial customers see solar as a viable option for lowering electric bills.

“With the ideal solar irradiance of the Dominican Republic, Kyocera Solar panels, proven reliable through independent tests and decades of real-world experience, can make a significant impact on the nation’s renewable energy goals,” said Hitoshi Atari, President of Kyocera Solar Inc. “Kyocera’s modules have passed rigorous salt mist corrosion testing, making them the ideal choice for island installations where the harsh marine environment could otherwise negatively impact performance.”

The solar array is part of PUCMM’s environmentally friendly practices, which include upgrading to automated lighting systems in several buildings to improve energy efficiency, and enhancing its recycling program. The solar project represents a pilot program for the university to install more solar modules on campus.

The Dominican Republic relies heavily on imported resources – 86% of its electricity generated by imported fossil fuels. The country is currently altering its energy mix to use more solar energy because of it enjoys 5-8kWh/m2/day solar radiation resource.