Overview
DOE Golden NWTC Building Side is a 1.1 MW solar PV facility in Colorado, operated by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. It supports renewable energy research and grid integration.
DOE Golden NWTC Building Side is a solar photovoltaic (PV) facility located in Golden, Colorado, United States. With a capacity of 1.1 MW, it is a small-scale installation typical of research-oriented solar projects. The facility is owned by the DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and is operational. The plant uses solar PV technology to convert sunlight into electricity. As a small-scale facility, it contributes to NREL's research on solar energy performance and grid integration. The United States supports solar deployment through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and state-level Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS), which Colorado has with a 30% renewable target by 2020. This facility plays a role in advancing solar energy technology and demonstrating reliable clean energy generation. Its location at NREL's campus allows for integration with broader research efforts on renewable energy systems and grid stability, supporting the transition to a low-carbon energy future.
Environmental context
Solar PV facilities like this one have minimal environmental impact during operation, with no emissions or water use. However, land use and visual impacts can be considerations. In Colorado, solar installations benefit from high solar irradiance, but grid integration challenges may arise due to variable generation. The facility's small scale reduces potential ecological disruption.
Frequently asked questions
The facility is located in Golden, Colorado, United States, at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory campus.
The solar PV facility has a capacity of 1.1 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale installation.
The facility is owned by the DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
The Inflation Reduction Act provides tax credits and incentives for solar energy deployment, including investment tax credits (ITC) for commercial and utility-scale projects.
Solar PV generates electricity without greenhouse gas emissions or water consumption, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to climate change mitigation.