FPL | Space Coast Solar FAQs
 

Space Coast Next Generation Solar Energy Center FAQs

 

What is the Space Coast Next Generation Solar Center?

The Space Coast Next Generation Solar will utilize solar photovoltaic (PV) technology and will be located at Kennedy Space Center. The project is planned for 10 MW of installed capacity that is projected to produce approximately 16,000 MWh of electricity annually. Construction of the project is expected to begin as early as December 2008 with an in-service date during the fourth quarter of 2009.

How does solar photovoltaic technology work?

Photovoltaic technology generates electricity directly from sunlight via an electronic process that occurs naturally in certain types of material. Electrons in certain types of crystals are freed by solar energy and can be induced to travel through an electrical circuit, powering any type of electronic device or load. Because solar power can only be generated when the sun is up, this project will only generate electricity during the day. Therefore the energy is not produced on a continuous basis.

What are the benefits of using solar photovoltaic energy?

Sun light is an unlimited resource and is free. The energy produced is clean and emission-free. The panels used do not require fuel or water and produce no waste.

Will FPL need to build additional transmission infrastructure to support the solar plant?

There will be a new substation constructed to deliver the power produced by the solar facility.

What will happen to the plant during a hurricane?

Safety is always our number one concern. FPL will ensure that all equipment conforms to the required structural laws related to wind.

How many people will the solar facility serve?

FPL estimates that this facility will produce an average of 16,000 MWh of electricity per year, enough for more than 1,100 homes or 2,600 people.

What are the environmental benefits of this facility?

Space Coast Solar plant is expected to prevent more than 228,000 tons of green house gases from entering the air over the life of the project. This is equivalent to avoiding emissions from over 1,800 cars per year. It will also reduce fuel costs by decreasing fossil fuel consumption by 2.8 million MMBtu of natural gas, 117,000 barrels of residual oil and 5,000 barrels of distillate oil.

Are there any archeologically sensitive sites on the project grounds?

At this point, FPL is not aware of any archeologically sensitive areas within the area that is slated for the solar project. FPL is committed to protecting and preserving the environment and cultural/historical resources and we will work with the Florida’s State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and the federal governments to ensure that any archeological sites that may be encountered will not be adversely impacted by this project.

Will the solar panels give off reflections or glare?

The reflection or glare from solar panels is similar to that of a field of planted crops, such as corn.