Going Solar, Getting Greener at TransCor

Solar panels save energy, resources at company

The Nashville-based headquarters of TransCor, CCA's subsidiary inmate transportation company, is now partially powered by solar energy – an initiative that not only benefits the environment, but also saves thousands each year.

Solar panels were recently installed on TransCor's roof in a construction project that was completed in June. The panels produce about 7.5 percent of the building's total energy usage, saving the company an estimated $6,875 annually. Ninety-six percent of the $200,000-project was covered by federal and state grants, which enables the project to pay for itself in just under four years.

"We'll sell electricity produced from the solar panels to Nashville Electric Service, and they in turn will give us a credit back on our electric bill for other electricity we would otherwise buy," explains Jake Bliek, CCA managing director, Facility Management. "So it's offsetting electrical usage at TransCor and moving us just a few steps ahead in becoming more 'green'."

CCA Source Fall 2011