The State of Virginia’s Feasibility Study for Carbon Reduction through Solar Energy

Customer Profile: The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (VA-DMME) was established to enhance the development and conservation of energy and mineral resources in Virginia, ensuring these activities are conducted in a safe and environmentally sound manner to support a more productive economy. In addition, the VA-DMME encourages energy efficiency, renewable energy, as well as the use of alternatively fueled vehicles.

Challenge: The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy was interested in reducing its carbon footprint and energy expenditures at several state-owned facilities across central Virginia.

Stark Tech Solution: Stark Tech partnered with VA-DMME to conduct a comprehensive energy evaluation across several of its facilities. Our team collaborated with technical experts, including staff from James Madison University, to develop three net-metered solar projects from inception to commercial operation. As the Electrical Engineer of Record, we provided Owner’s Engineering services, which included:

  • Early development feasibility assessment and initial system sizing
  • Interconnection design and coordination with existing facilities
  • Preparation of all electrical design drawing and calculations required for review by the then Bureau of Capital Outlay Management (BCOM), now the Division of Engineering and Buildings (DEB)
  • Bid electrical specifications assembly and RFP assistance
  • Material submittal reviews for major equipment procurement
  • Construction QA/QC oversight inspections and reporting
  • Final code-compliance Inspections and punch-list development

 

Project Result: Stark Tech successfully guided VA-DMME through the entire project lifecycle, ensuring the development and implementation of efficient and sustainable solar energy systems. This renewable energy initiative not only significantly reduced VA-DMME’s  carbon footprint but also established a new standard  for energy efficiency and environmental stewardship across state-owned facilities.