SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Utah’s first floating solar array has been installed at Summit County’s Signal Hill Water Treatment facility, advancing the county’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2032.

The 587.5-kilowatt array on a holding pond at the Signal Hill Water Treatment Plant aims to reduce the facility’s carbon footprint while providing cost savings. The project could serve as a model for similar initiatives across the state.

The Signal Hill facility, completed in 2004 as part of the Lost Canyon Project, was upgraded in 2010 to improve efficiency and treatment processes.

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Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky Award program granted $400,000 to the project. Representatives from Ameresco, Mountain Regional Water, and Rocky Mountain Power attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Ameresco partnered with D3Energy to develop the array, which aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 609 metric tons annually, equivalent to eliminating 68,474 gallons of gasoline consumption. The system will offset 92% of the plant’s grid energy consumption and reduce energy costs by 80%, saving the water district about $76,000 annually.

“This floating solar array demonstrates the benefit of thinking beyond conventional approaches,” said Lou Maltezos, Executive Vice President of Ameresco. “The notion that solar panels must be installed on land is an unnecessary limitation. By reconsidering their placement, we unlock new opportunities for sustainability. The district is deeply invested in the economic aspects of this project, making it both innovative and economically feasible.”

Chris Braun, Mountain Regional Chief Technology Officer, added, ““Traditional ground or rooftop solar wasn’t an option for us at this facility, but this innovative floating solar installation makes use of an untapped resource. This is one more piece of the puzzle for us to get to a ‘Net-Zero’ energy goal as we strive to be responsible stewards for the community and the environment.”

The project was completed ahead of schedule, with construction finalized by Sept. 10 and commissioning completed on Sept. 20. Full utility permission to operate is expected by Oct. 23 of this year.

The solar array will also produce surplus energy in the winter to earn credits and offset costs.

Rocky Mountain Power notes the success of this project has spurred the development of similar initiatives across the state. “By working together, we’re making a difference. That connection inspires us to lend a helping hand to support the growth and vitality of our communities.”