Atrium Health
Belmont
This design-build project involved the installation of a new photovoltaic (PV) canopy system, also known as a solar carport, on an existing surface parking lot. The project included new solar carport structures, PV modules, inverters, electrical distribution equipment, site work and associated electric utility interconnection. The PV system consists of 285-solar panels with a total nominal power capacity of 180kW, which is approximately enough production for the building to achieve near net-zero electricity. Careful design was incorporated to avoid handicap parking spaces as ADA accessibility must be maintained and the inpatient rehab hospital was to remain open 24/7. Phasing was required to facilitate the construction of the project while not interrupting building operations.
Charlotte Engineers partnered with Advocate Health and the City of Mt. Holly to make this project possible by amending a local ordinance that previously restricted all solar arrays to a maximum of 12-foot tall. The local ordinance was intended to safeguard residential areas but was revised to expand on commercially zoned properties to meet green energy opportunities. This was the first completed solar project for Advocate Health in the southeast and serves as a benchmark for future projects not only in Mt. Holly, but other Advocate properties in reducing carbon footprint.