The City of Tarpon Springs, Fla., is joining cities nationwide in prioritizing sustainability by exploring renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to combat climate change and lower energy costs.
Conducting a Solar Feasibility Study is a priority action listed in Tarpon Springs’ Sustainability Plan, adopted in 2023. To support these efforts, DRMP is conducting a solar feasibility study to help Tarpon Springs assess and expand solar installations at multiple city-owned facilities.
The study evaluates energy consumption, site-specific conditions, and potential energy-saving opportunities. By analyzing the different facilities, the City can take steps toward reducing its carbon footprint, and increasing energy efficiency.
Our team includes experienced professionals like Paul Benvie, PE, who brings over a decade of expertise in solar system design, construction plans, and solar installation user manuals for diverse projects. As a certified Envision Sustainability Professional (ENV SP), my contribution is to provide informed assessments to support sustainable and resilient civil infrastructure.
As part of the study, DRMP will collect and analyze energy usage data, assess site conditions, and prepare a detailed report summarizing key findings. The report will include a prioritization list of projects based on solar potential and energy savings along with recommendations for next steps and possible funding opportunities. This information will help the City make informed decisions about future solar investments.
Several City-owned properties/facilities are being assessed, including City Hall, the public library, recreation center, landfills, and parking lots to determine the best options for solar energy integration.
A combination of factors is considered to determine whether a facility is a good candidate for solar energy including, the location of the facilities, a site assessment that evaluates the footprint of the proposed site and its conditions (e.g., the condition of roof or ground mounts), a solar resource assessment (for solar radiation and weather patterns), the availability of existing electrical infrastructure, and analyzing energy data for savings.
However, analyzing existing facilities can be challenging, especially with older buildings, since as-built or record drawings can sometimes be difficult or impossible to obtain. Other challenges include regulatory hurdles, financial feasibility, and limited site access for reviews, such as on older roof sections and buildings.
The steps to conduct this study involve collecting and reviewing existing data, as well as any other relevant information for each site or facility. A site assessment will be conducted through field reviews followed by a solar resource assessment and an evaluation of the electrical infrastructure. We will also perform an energy efficiency analysis, a risk assessment, and develop a project prioritization list.
DRMP will use specialized software and analysis techniques to evaluate energy consumption patterns at each facility. This energy efficiency analysis will help identify opportunities for cost savings and increased energy independence. We will summarize our findings in a report for presentation to City officials.
Throughout the study, DRMP will conduct periodic progress meetings with City staff to gather feedback and discuss findings. We expect the study to be completed within three to four months, giving the City a clear roadmap for potential solar initiatives. Our hope is the City will implement the recommendations and pursue solar energy installations.
By proactively exploring sustainable infrastructure solutions, the City is positioning itself to join the growing movement toward greener, more efficient and cost-effective energy, laying the groundwork for a cleaner future.
