Alternative energy could help to create many Tempe jobs and positions throughout the state.
The Arizona Solar Market Analysis and Research Tool project is working to find the best ways the state can use solar power and other sustainable energy resources. The three- year project, which was initially funded by a grant from http://www.sfaz.org/Science Foundation Arizona, is being led by Arizona State University.
The Az SMART project is aimed at following President Barack Obama's plan to reduce carbon emissions and foreign oil dependence and create clean energy jobs. Part of the project is focused on bringing solar and renewable energy companies to Arizona.
Another aim of the project is to provide tools that will benefit homeowners, businesses, and community leaders who need to make informed decisions. A Web site will be offered where homeowners and business owners can fill out information about their needs and costs and determine whether solar energy would be a good choice for them.
State policymakers and business leaders also will be able to get help deciding whether to use certain types of alternative energy and how it will impact the environment and job creation throughout Arizona.
Research funded by Az SMART has already identified some large areas that would be good locations for solar and alternative energy facilities. These locations could potentially provide enough power for the entire country and provide significant revenue for Arizona.
ASU's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering are currently studying the technical side of moving to renewable energy, while ASU's Decision Theater is being used to test various scenarios surrounding the solar siting and integration aspects of Az SMART.
Several partners are helping to fund Az SMART, including: APS, BrightSource Energy, Salt River Project, Science Foundation Arizona, Tucson Electric Power, ViaSol Energy Solutions, and CreateASoft, Inc.
Comments