ChevronTexaco’s energy services subsidiary, Chevron Energy Solutions LP (Chevron ES), recently installed a 500-kW solar photovoltaic system at its Midway-Sunset oil field located near Bakersfield, Calif. The 4,800 amorphous-silicon solar panels were provided by United Solar Systems Corporation (Uni-Solar). The project covers approximately 6 acres. According to ChevronTexaco, the system will help to power oil-well pumps and processing plants at the oil field. With the help of state subsidies, several California businesses are beginning to take advantage of the solar alternative. Solano County officials recently dedicated a new 230-kW system in Fairfield, Calif. The system was installed by PowerLight Corp. and is the first phase of a 350-kW project.

— by J.J. Siegel

Publication date: 07/14/2003