Solar

Currently, Tri-State’s renewable energy portfolio does not include solar energy.  The G&T, however, is participating in a solar research project with other regional utilities.

•  Concentrating solar power.
  Unlike conventional flat-plate solar or photovoltaic panels, concentrating solar power (CSP) uses reflectors to concentrate the heat and generate electricity more efficiently. There are four utility-sized CSP plants in the U.S. today; one in Nevada and three in California.

Tri-State is partnering other regional utilities and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) to study the feasibility of concentrating solar power at a site in New Mexico. The assessment will examine the technological, performance economic, environmental and regulatory issues surrounding the development of a 50-500 megawatt (MW) CSP plant.

Consumers can utilize solar energy at their homes and business, through the following technologies:

•  Photovoltaic solar cells. Made of semi-conducting materials, the cells directly convert sunlight into electricity. The simplest cells power watches and calculators, while more complex systems can power houses and provide power to the electric grid.

 

•  Passive solar heating, cooling and (day) lighting. Buildings designed for passive solar, which use no mechanical means, and day lighting incorporate design features such as large south-facing windows and building materials that absorb and slowly release the sun's heat, reducing heating costs by up to 50 percent. Passive solar designs can also include natural ventilation for cooling.