Article Contributed on: 9/3/2008 11:27:08 AM
Solar energy company Bella Energy has designed "MoBella" a mobile solar generator that provides power at 5430 Sports 2008 race series. It is part of 5430 Sports' Tri-Sustainability Program to reduce the carbon footprint of their 2008 Triathlon Series at the Boulder Reservoir and three running-race events in downtown Boulder.
5430 Sports organizes and promotes multisport endurance races for beginner and elite competitors. Last year, as a part of its Triathlon Series, 5430 Sports introduced the Tri-Sustainability Program. This leading effort to green sporting events made significant strides in 2007. For example, 5430 Sports' three triathlon series events achieved the highest diversion rates for any Boulder County event in 2007, meaning at each event only a small percentage of the total waste collected went to the landfill.
Now 5430 Sports is reducing their carbon emissions from electricity use. Bella Energy's solar generator will provide 100% of their power, running their PA system, laptops, speakers, cash register, sound board and blowers for banners.
"Using renewable energy is one of the best methods for reducing carbon emissions and limiting the impact of climate change," said
Stu Gillespie, 5430 Sports Environmental Coordinator. "We hope our events are a successful model of a carbon neutral lifestyle for all participants."
Events usually use a diesel generator and biodiesel fuel does minimize harmful emissions, but it will still emit carbon monoxide and particulates so it's not carbon neutral. "5430 Sports has used generators in the past that are noisy, but MoBella is clean and quiet," said Marc Guy, Bella Energy Project Manager. "Solar energy is ideal for planners who want their events to be carbon neutral."
The 700 watt solar generator can power up to 3,500 watts at any given time. Its bank of 16 batteries with storage of 125 kilowatt hours mean that even with no sun the solar generator can run for 8-10 hours a day for two days, ideal for a weekend event. The generator is virtually hands-free, no on-site maintenance is required and can be easily operated by race employees.
Bella Energy is Colorado's leading solar energy company engaged in the designing and contracting of renewable energy and energy conservation projects throughout Colorado and the Rocky Mountain Region. Since 1982, Bella Energy has been empowering individuals, businesses and communities to achieve energy independence, embrace a sustainable future, and contribute to a clean energy economy. www.bellaenergy.com Alison Picher Alison.Picher@BellaEnergy.com 720-256-5013
5430 Sports is a leading developer and organizer of sports-based entertainment events. With a focus on multisport endurance races, 5430Sports has the capability of attracting world-class participants, sponsors and spectators. In addition, 5430 Sports has a record of successfully matching events to corporate sponsors, as well as athletes to products to leverage brand and individual identification. 5430 Sports, Barry Siff barry@5430sports.com, 303-442-0041