Project

As one of the single largest energy users in the region, Metro is an important partner for meeting regional energy goals. Metro is leveraging its real estate portfolio to deliver renewable energy to local communities through the innovative and community-oriented solar carports project. 

Overview

After extensive planning, Metro completed a competitive selection process for the solar carports project. In 2020, Metro negotiated a 25-year contract with SunPower Corporation and Goldman Sachs Renewable Power LLC (GSRP) to install solar carports at four Metro sites. 

When the solar carports are operational, the 14.6 acres of solar panels will collectively generate around 10 megawatts of electrical capacity, or enough to power at least 1,250* single-family homes annually, making this project one of the largest community solar projects in the Mid-Atlantic and in the nation. 

The project is part of Metro’s sustainability initiatives and Energy Action Plan and will help advance the Clean Energy DC Plan that seeks to cut carbon emissions in half and transition to 100 percent renewable energy by 2032.

*_According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)_

Goals

• Provide renewable energy to Pepco’s D.C. and Maryland service areas by partnering with SunPower to install photovoltaic solar panels at selected sites. 100% of all power generated will be delivered to the residential and commercial customers. No electricity generated from this project will power Metro facilities.
• Support the authority’s operating budget through long-term revenue from GSRP which will own, operate and maintain the solar power system and provide annual payments to Metro.
• Improve customer amenities through covered parking (offering shade and protection from extreme weather), improved LED lighting, new security cameras and emergency call boxes.

Construction Timeline

Construction on all sites is expected to be complete by 2023. Visit the advisories below to learn more about parking or station changes due to construction.

• Anacostia (Fall 2021 – Spring 2022)
• Southern Ave (Fall 2021 – Summer 2022)
• Naylor Road (Winter 2022 – Summer 2022)
• Cheverly (Fall 2022 – Spring 2023)

What is a Solar Carport?

A solar carport is also known as a solar-paneled carport or solar canopy. Solar carports function similarly to a solar panel on the top of a home or building. Renewable energy is collected and delivered to the end user. Solar carports at Metro sites will provide a safer, more convenient customer experience through covered parking and other upgraded customer amenities.