The UNLV Center for Energy Research is working with the National Park Service (which is representing other Federal agencies in the U.S. Department of Interior) in an attempt to configure a solar power system that will bring the agencies to a net zero grid energy usage in Southern Nevada. Geographically included in this study is the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, as well as disbursed other areas primarily in Clark County, Nevada. The project was initiated because of the mandate for Federal agencies to use more renewable energy and potential opportunities to be successful with this type of project in this location.

As part of the work, an assessment has been carried out of the total amount of energy used by the agencies in this region and a summary has been prepared related to the energy use by meter location. Also being investigated are possible locations for a solar power generation facility, as well as issues related to possible involvement of Nevada Power with the effort.

Recommendations will be made about the type of technology to be considered, the potential size and cost of this facility, and if the loads from a myriad of meters might be consolidated into a single billing center.