Solar now spans the entire roof of LegalZoom’s north Austin facility as Meridian Solar has completed the second and final phase of the solar energy system. The two-part installation makes up 520 kW of solar, and the energy generated will be interconnected and operated in parallel with the local utility grid.
The project was installed in two rounds of 260 kW due to the local commercial solar guidelines from Austin Energy stating that up to 260 kW can be installed per customer, per building complex, per year. Thus, phase one consisting of 260 kW was constructed in 2014, and the second phase of 260 kW was completed in 2015. Having met Austin Energy requirements, LegalZoom is able to take advantage of the available Performance Based Incentive from Austin Energy of $.09 per kWh. Therefore, LegalZoom will receive $.09 for each kWh the 520 kW system generates, hedging against rising energy costs and saving money.
“The environmental impact of 520 kW of solar is an annual reduction of 900,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions,” said Mike Wilson, VP of Operations. “This latest LegalZoom investment in solar is not only an investment in clean energy but also an investment in our community.”
Meridian Solar was responsible for the development, engineering, permitting, procurement, and construction of the solar array. The entire system is made up of fixed-tilt modules mounted on the building using a self-ballasted, non-penetrating racking system. This new rooftop investment will reduce operating expenses for Legal Zoom while advancing their commitment to corporate responsibility.
“We are pleased to work with LegalZoom for a second time around to further their dedication to generating clean, renewable energy for their facilities,” says Andrew McCalla, President and Founder of Meridian Solar. “The installation turned out better than we could have imagined, and we are happy to be their partner.”
