Proposals Sought to Install Javits Center Solar Panels
The solar panels are to generate up to 1.4 megawatts of renewable energy.
NEW YORK CITY—Developers are invited to submit proposals to the state to install solar energy panels on the rooftop and sidewalks of the Jacob K. Javits Center. The massive complex is located on the far West Side of Manhattan at Eleventh Avenue, between W. 34th and W. 40th streets.
Interested parties can begin their submissions by first registering on the New York Power Authority site directory. The state public power company will administer the requests for proposals on behalf of the Javits Center. A developer will be selected to design, construct and own the solar PV (photovoltaic) system. With a preliminary site assessment, the Javits Center and the NYPA have already identified the locations to install the system to generate up to 1.4 megawatts of energy.
More than 4,000 panels will be placed on the center’s 6.75 acre green roof, which has become a wildlife sanctuary that includes more than 25 bird species. The green roof also provides building insulation and retains storm water, reducing the risk of flooding. Additional street-level solar panels will be installed on Eleventh Avenue.
The project is part of Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s goal to generate 50% of the state’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The governor’s office estimates the system will offset more than 2.7 million pounds of carbon dioxide each year, the equivalent of removing 262 cars from the road.
Alan Steel, president and CEO of the Javits Center, points out that for more than 30 years the center has hosted large-scale events attracting millions of visitors, supporting the state’s economy. “With the installation of our green roof, and a robust energy conservation program, the Javits Center has become a model of sustainability for buildings nationwide, and this solar array project will build on that sustainable success.”
NYPA’s president and CEO Gil C. Quiniones says, “This project, planned for a world-renowned convention facility, will bring increased visibility to the benefits of renewable energy technologies while helping realize significant cost savings at one of our most iconic gathering places in New York City.”