Dolores government buildings are now being powered by the sun.
Panels were recently installed on Dolores Town Hall, public works shop and wastewater facility.
The panels provide a total of 126 kilowatts of power. The panels were installed by Shaw Solar, which leases them to the town.
Solar power is sold to the town at a fixed rate over the 25 years, representing an energy savings of about 3% per year. The panels are warrantied for 25 years.
During the 25-year lease, the solar arrays would generate estimated energy savings of $140,000 for the sewer plant, $78,000 for the public works shop and $17,000 for Town Hall.
The buildings with the solar panels will be tied into Empire Electric service grid, and continue to have reliable power.
The town received a grant from the Department of Local Affairs to pay for 75% of the system cost.
The town of Dolores has also installed a Level II Electric Vehicle charging station at Dolores Town Hall, 420 Central Ave. The town is offering the service free of charge.
