US-based PV developer NRG Energy and MGM Resorts International have completed what they claim to be the world's largest rooftop PV array built atop a convention center, in Las Vegas.
The 6.4MW installation covers an area of 8.1 hectares on top of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas and will generate enough energy to power over 1,000 US homes per year.
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In addition, both companies released plans to construct an additional 2MW PV array on top of an expansion wing of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, which is scheduled to be built later this year.
Jim Murren, chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International, said: “Today marks a major milestone for MGM Resorts, NRG and the entire Las Vegas community. The completion of this solar array demonstrates our steadfast commitment to the principles of environmental responsibility, and the announcement of the second array reinforces that we’re always looking to do more.”
NRG financed, built, owns and maintains the installation, while Mandalay Bay Resort will buy all electricity generated from the arrays as part of a power purchase agreement.
Multiple other companies are involved in the development and operation of the project./ PV mounting solution provider, Unirac, provided the 6.4MW roof mount for the installation, while power management company Easton signed a deal with EPC firm Sunora Energy Solutions to provide electrical distribution equipment for the project.
John Vernacchia, global segment manager for renewable energy at Eaton, said: “The MGM Resorts solar project is a major milestone in the company’s efforts to promote renewable energy generation and reduce dependence on fossil fuel. By combining the capabilities of Eaton’s proven solar products with Sunora’s system design expertise, the installation will change the way that Las Vegas area produces and consumes electrical energy while providing a regional model that demonstrates the potential of renewable energy generation.”
