Pulaski County government plans to save money through solar farm technology

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — Solar savings are on the horizon for Pulaski County six months after Arkansas state lawmakers passed a bill permitting more freedoms when investing in renewable energy sources.

A two-decade partnership alongside Today's Power Inc. (TPI) revolves around the installation of solar arrays at the Little Rock Port Industrial Park and Pulaski County Justice Complex.

Pulaski County Judge Barry Hyde is optimistic about the level of cost savings that could arise from the solar project.

"When I got here, our electric bill totaled for the county was about $1.2 million," Hyde said.

The yearly electrical bill these days sits around $850,000.

Hyde noted the county is looking at even lower numbers once solar arrays are implemented in the coming months.

"In just the first year, we'll save at least $150,000," Hyde said.

The solar panels are funded and operated by TPI while Pulaski County pays for generated electricity from the arrays at a rate of 4.9 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Between 80 and 100 percent of the electricity coming from the solar arrays will meet the county's electrical demand, powering buildings such as the courthouse and jail among other facilities.

Arkansas has one of the lowest utility costs in the nation, according to TPI President Michael Henderson, who believes such a fact can make it challenging to justify going solar.

But he acknowledges the long term return on investment accompanied by the environmentally-friendly alternative.

"We look at how much it's going to save on electricity bills as an economic benefit for the county. It also contributes tax base to the county," Henderson said.

Arkansas' largest county is now going solar followed by a string of municipalities including Fayetteville, Hot Springs and Jefferson County.

"It's happening all around. It's a good idea, it makes fiscal sense and I'm proud for Pulaski County to be a part of the leadership of that movement," Hyde said.