The City of Goleta celebrated the unveiling and completion of Monarch 1, the City’s first solar array, at a green ribbon-cutting the morning of July 27, 2022, at Goleta City Hall. The event was well-attended (approximately 60 people) and included the entire Goleta City Council, City staff, dignitaries, stakeholders, staff from neighboring jurisdictions, and community members. City of Goleta Planning and Environmental Review Director Peter Imhof and recently retired, former Sustainability Manager Cindy Moore had the honor of officially cutting the green ribbon underneath the new installation, followed by cheers from the audience. Watch the special moment captured on video here: https://youtu.be/qt7YxaaUvd0.
The Monarch 1 Solar project will generate 210 kw of solar power, which will power nearly 100% of City Hall’s energy usage with clean, renewable energy produced on-site. Monarch 1 is wired to be micro-grid ready and includes pre-wiring for six electric vehicle charging stations to be installed in the future. Anticipated savings for the City over the 25-year lifespan of the project are estimated to be more than $270,000. This is the first solar project of many that the City hopes to install at municipal facilities to offset energy use and meet the City’s 100% renewable electricity goal by year 2030.
Prior to the cutting of the green ribbon, speakers discussed the milestone project and its significance not only to Goleta but to the region.
Mayor Paula Perotte said, “This is a truly historic day for the City of Goleta. Monarch 1 named for our famed butterfly, is the first municipal solar installation for the City and represents years of hard work and the City’s dedication to a greener, more sustainable future.”
Councilmember Kyle Richards said, “This project is not only a reminder of the City’s commitment to sustainability but a reminder that we as a community are coming together to address climate change. We are moving forward to meet our goals to reduce our carbon footprint, and in the process we are working to safeguard our region against vulnerabilities due to wildfires and grid disruptions.”
2nd District Santa Barbara County Supervisor Gregg Hart was impressed with the event turnout and said, “The Goodland continues to be at the forefront of our regional efforts to advance sustainability. This project demonstrates the City of Goleta’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, while generating clean energy and putting our values into practice.”
Planning and Environmental Review Director Peter Imhof said, “The Monarch 1 Solar Project is a cornerstone of the City’s Strategic Energy Plan and our first step towards developing onsite generation at City facilities. It not only meets our environmental goals but shows fiscal prudence and responsibility.”
“Our City is committed to completing more projects like Monarch 1 to build a more climate resilient community and clean energy future,” said the City’s new Sustainability Manager Dana Murray. “I look forward to collaborating with our elected officials, staff, residents, and stakeholders to ensure that Goleta is prepared for and buffered from the local effects of climate change, while reducing our City’s carbon emissions.”
Make sure to drive by and check out Monarch 1 behind Goleta City Hall (130 Cremona Drive).
Learn more about the City’s Sustainability Program and projects at: https://cityofgoleta.org/sustainability.
Photo of everyone who attended
Mayor Perotte speaking to the audience
Ready to cut the ribbon, pictured from left-to-right: Sustainability Management Assistant Angeline Foshay, Sustainability Manager Dana Murray, Councilmember Kyle Richards, 2nd District Supervisor Gregg Hart, Planning and Environmental Review Director Peter Imhof, former Sustainability Manager Cindy Moore, Mayor Paula Perotte, Councilmember James Kyriaco, Mayor Pro Tempore Stuart Kasdin, and Councilmember Roger Aceves