Soaking Up The Sun
October 27, 2004 Butte County Solar Dedication

Over 300 county employees, residents, and solar energy supporters assisted the County in “soaking up the sun” during the October 27, 2004 dedication of the County’s 1.18 megawatt solar facility. Keynote speaker, Congressman Herger, emphasized the fact that Butte County has become the north state leader in their pursuit of renewable energy. Other speakers at the event included: California Energy Commissioner, Jackalyne Pfannenstiel; General Manager of the Solar Division of Sharp Electronics, Ron Kenedi; President of Sun Power, Dan Thompson; and Director of Service Analysis for PG&E, David Rubin.

During the event, the Butte County Board of Supervisors accepted a $4.2 million dollar rebate check from PG&E. The County’s rebate is the largest solar rebate ever issued by PG&E. In addition to the benefits of supporting renewable energy, Dan Thompson of Sun Power emphasized the importance of this project to the local economy.

Other County resources were also featured during the event including the Library’s Literacy Coach, and the District Attorney’s Office Electric Car. In addition, Bill Curry, General Services Director, provided interested attendees tours of the County’s four solar arrays on one of the Oroville Transit Authority buses. The Las Plumas Oroville Alliance Marching Band provided music for the event, and refreshments were provided by Checkers Restaurant, a Regional Occupation Program for local youth.