Who’d think a parking structure and solar panels could go so far in meeting green initiatives? Well, that’s exactly what oil and gas company TGS adopted to help reach its objectives.
Determination, a Parking Structure and Solar Power
Houston-based TGS provides energy data and intelligence to customers worldwide. In 2021, the company set an ambitious goal to be net zero by 2030.
This commitment to being net zero targets the company’s Scope 1 and 2 emissions. These include emissions generated at the company headquarters as well as indirect emissions from purchased electricity. In Houston, where grid-supplied electricity typically comes from nonrenewable sources, TGS’s goal is monumental.
Transitioning the company’s headquarters to solar energy would help TGS achieve its net zero objective. After performing due diligence, the TGS facilities team determined a solar canopy on the employee parking lot would provide much-needed shelter from the heat. Of course, it would also move the company one step closer to its goal.
After talking with several solar companies, TGS turned to the team at solar panel company Freedom Solar. We worked with TGS, the city of Houston and the building manager to design and install a solar parking lot structure that would meet city codes while providing maximum energy output.
[Related: The Benefits of Solar Parking Lots]
Hearing From the TGS Team
“The Freedom team worked with the landlord and the city throughout the project and they understood that triangular relationship really well,” explains TGS Director of Facilities and Administration Mary Ann Bordes.
The system is on track to produce an estimated 901,710 kilowatt hours (KWh) of energy annually. That’s enough to handle nearly 60% of the Houston facility’s energy consumption. The project allows TGS to cut its global CO2 emissions by 30%, a milestone in its sustainability and waste-reduction journey.
The level of communication and coordination was outstanding. I would rate the installation a 10 out of 10.
-Mary Ann bordes, Director of facilities and administration, TGS
TGS CEO Kristian Johansen notes the decision to install solar is both financially and environmentally beneficial. “Solar will provide TGS cost savings over time as energy is produced year over year. We are excited to provide a solution that satisfies our employees’ request for covered parking and provides a sustainable solution in line with our net-zero initiatives,” Johansen says.
Best of all, the solar parking lot structure will stand the test of time. It’ll churn out clean energy for the next 25-plus years — while helping create a more stable, resilient Texas electricity grid.
[Related: 39 Uses of Solar Energy]
Go Green With Freedom Solar
Would you like to outfit your own parking structure with a home solar installation or commercial solar installation? When you’re ready to join the solar revolution, get in touch.
Looking to maintain, repair or upgrade your solar system? Our solar repair and maintenance service department can help you obtain maximum energy production and efficiency.
As an experienced solar installation company, in Freedom Solar we’re prepared to help you reach energy independence. Give us a call at (800) 504-2337 or complete our contact form. One of our specialists will offer a free consultation!