The solar system, which was installed by Suntech Power Holding Co., will provide one megawatt of solar energy to Harrah's Rincon Casino located in Luiseno Indian territory in Southern California. Its installation, which was completed on Wednesday, was the result of a partnership between the Rincon Band, the California Center for Sustainable Energy, TRANE, and San Diego Gas & Electric.
The solar energy system will comprise of 4,000 Suntech solar panels that will be installed over a five-and-a-half acre site on the casino's land and provide enough energy to run almost 90 percent of the structure's HVAC system.
"This is an important step forward in energy efficiency. It is just the beginning of what we, as a tribe, look to accomplish as responsible members of our community which is addressing the multiple energy and environmental issues that currently face all governments," said Bo Mazzetti, Chairman of the Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians.
The solar energy generated by the system is expected to offset nearly 25 percent of the casino's total annual energy consumption.
