KGO Radio Launches Solar Power Action Plan
Partnership with PG&E to Generate Clean, Renewable Energy
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, – February 12, 2008 –KGO Radio and PG&E today unveiled a joint project in progress to install state-of-the-art solar power systems at KGO Radio’s transmitter facility. The systems will generate clean, renewable energy and will distinguish KGO Radio as the first major broadcast media outlet in California to reach its listeners by harnessing the power of the sun.
By collaborating with solar energy pioneers PG&E and SolFocus, KGO Radio aims to promote public awareness about the benefits of renewable energy and sustainable practices. During the solar installation process, KGO Radio’s website [kgo.com] is featuring live webcam coverage and blog updates that will allow the public to track the project’s development and learn more about solar power.
“As a trusted Bay Area news source, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to be a voice for important ecological issues,” said Mickey Luckoff, President and General Manger. “Solar power is one of many eco-friendly (environmentally-sound) initiatives that deserve increased public awareness.”
KGO Radio’s transmitter is located on the eastern side of the Dumbarton Bridge, where it is viewed by 80,000 commuters on a daily basis. KGO Radio and PG&E are leveraging this high-visibility location to call attention to the environmental benefits of solar power.
In order to generate clean renewable power, KGO Radio is installing two distinct solar systems at its transmitter facility. The first system, designed and constructed by Premier Power, includes two GE photovoltaic arrays mounted on the roof and ground at the transmitter building.
The second solar system, designed and manufactured by SolFocus, Inc., features innovative Concentrator Photovoltaic (CPV) technology which utilizes mirrors to focus the sun’s light 500 times onto high-efficiency, multi-junction solar cells. This cutting-edge technology provides high output for low-cost solar energy. These solar arrays will be mounted outside the transmitter building on tracking poles that allow the panels to follow the sun’s movement throughout the day. Combined, the two systems will generate 12 KW of power. The project is estimated to be completed by mid-March 2008.
“Solar energy is a key element in the fight against climate change,” said Helen Burt, Senior Vice President of Customer Care for PG&E. “By partnering with KGO Radio on this solar project, we are helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and helping to educate the public about the benefits of solar energy.”
For more information about the KGO Radio solar project go to kgoam810.com and for more information on Pacific Gas and Electric solar initiatives, please visit www.PGE.com.