By opting to derive some operating energy needs from solar power, a New Jersey city is among municipalities drawing power from alternative and renewable sources, according to published reports.

City administrators of Garfield, a New York suburb, officially agreed to have 12 municipal buildings powered by solar technologies, according to NorthJersey.com. The North Jersey city agreed to partner with Amberjack Solar Energy on November 8 for power purchases.

The agreement is "a great opportunity for the city," city manager Tom Duch told the publication, noting Garfield will "enter into the solar energy realm".

The process began this past June. The city administration voted to allow the city engineer move forward and outline specifications, for which he and the city would review bids. Amberjack had presented its services to the city over the summer and turned out to be the best bidder. It offered to pay for, own, operate and maintain the solar energy system, which would save the city about $250,000 in annual energy costs.

The facilities where solar panels will be installed include city hall, a recreation center, a senior center, each of the five city fire buildings, the health department, the public works building, the public library and a field house.