Environmental Stewardship

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Solar Energy

Solar energy that reaches Earth can be harnessed and converted into both heat and electricity.

solar panels
The solar panels atop West Irving Library.

Current Uses of Solar Energy

Today, solar energy is used for a variety of applications, primarily:


Electricity Generation

As described in the Green Advisory Board's Solar Brochure, there are many reasons for considering solar power for homes in Irving, including reducing your electric bill and reducing your exposure to electric outages. This brochure also provides helpful guidance on administrative processes, financing (including incentives) and how to request proposals from solar providers.


There are two main technologies used to convert solar energy into electricity:

  1. Photovoltaic (PV) Devices: These solar cells convert sunlight directly into electricity. PV systems can range from small cells for calculators and watches, to rooftop panels, to large-scale solar farms spanning acres.
  2. Solar Thermal/Electric Power Plants: These systems concentrate sunlight to heat a fluid, producing steam that drives a generator to create electricity.
Heating Applications

When converted into thermal energy, solar power can:

  1. Heat water for homes, buildings or swimming pools.
  2. Warm indoor spaces in homes, greenhouses and other buildings.

Benefits of Solar Energy

  1. Lower electricity bills for homeowners and businesses in many situations.
  2. Steady and predictable energy costs for utilities.
  3. When combined with energy storage (batteries), solar energy can reduce exposure to electrical outages.
  4. Clean energy: No air pollutants or carbon dioxide emissions.
  5. Minimal environmental impact when installed on existing buildings.
  6. When constructed on distressed properties and closed landfills, solar farms can convert underutilized properties into income-producing assets.

Limitations of Solar Energy

  1. Variable sunlight: Solar energy availability depends on location, time of day, season, and weather conditions.
  2. Space requirements: Large surface areas are often necessary to collect enough energy to make systems cost-effective.
  3. Power transmission: Expanding power transmission capacity will enhance the availability of power from solar farms in West Texas to address the growing demands in East Texas.

Office of Environmental Stewardship

Melissa Baker

Transportation Project Manager


P: (972) 721-4846

Email


Stephanie Wagner

Environmental Programs Coordinator


P: (972) 742-2296

Email


M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.


City Hall

825 W. Irving Blvd.

Irving, TX 75060