PG&E and Solar Electric Supply Launch Innovative Solar Hybrid Power System at Pittsburg Landfill

In a significant development for renewable energy and waste management, PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG) and Solar Electric Supply Inc. have announced the successful launch of a fully operational MAPPS® hybrid solar PV power system at the Pittsburg, California landfill biomethane project. This innovative system, which became fully operational in July 2024, represents a major stride in sustainable energy solutions and landfill gas management.

The MAPPS® hybrid solar system, designed by Solar Electric Supply, provides renewable primary critical power for monitoring and control equipment at the biomethane project. This collaboration between PG&E and Solar Electric Supply demonstrates a shared commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies for sustainable energy initiatives. The system's reliability is crucial for the success of the landfill-gas-to-energy project, which is developed by Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE:AMRC).

The significance of this project extends beyond its immediate application. It showcases the potential for integrating multiple renewable energy sources to benefit local communities. The landfill gas, which previously contributed to local smog and greenhouse gas emissions, is now being captured through extraction wells and converted into heat and electricity for use by the facility and nearby community. This process not only reduces harmful emissions but also creates a valuable energy resource.

PG&E's involvement in purchasing the gas wholesale from the facility further underscores the economic viability of such renewable energy projects. The success of this system could pave the way for similar installations across the country, potentially transforming landfills from environmental liabilities into sustainable energy assets.

The custom MAPPS® system features a 6.4 kW solar array using Qcells G10+ 400 Watt modules, custom battery and electronics enclosures, and a dual inverter system. This sophisticated setup ensures reliable power generation and storage, critical for the continuous operation of the biomethane project.

The collaboration between PG&E, Solar Electric Supply, and Ameresco in this project exemplifies effective public-private partnerships in advancing energy sustainability. It demonstrates how industry leaders can work together to address climate change challenges and build a more resilient energy grid.

This project's success could have far-reaching implications for the renewable energy sector. It proves the viability of hybrid solar systems in critical infrastructure applications, potentially encouraging more utilities and municipalities to adopt similar technologies. The integration of solar power with landfill gas management could become a model for sustainable waste management practices nationwide.

Furthermore, the project aligns with broader goals of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. By turning a source of pollution into clean energy, it addresses multiple environmental concerns simultaneously. This approach could be particularly valuable in urban and suburban areas where landfills are often located near population centers.

The flawless performance reported by PG&E since the system's full operation began in July 2024 is a testament to the reliability and efficiency of the MAPPS® hybrid solar system. This track record could boost confidence in similar renewable energy solutions, potentially accelerating their adoption in other critical infrastructure projects.

As the world grapples with the urgent need to transition to cleaner energy sources, projects like the Pittsburg landfill biomethane initiative serve as crucial case studies. They demonstrate that with innovative technology and collaborative efforts, it is possible to turn environmental challenges into opportunities for sustainable energy production. The success of this project could inspire similar initiatives across the country, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.