Mercy Hospital Joplin creates largest solar project in the area

One hundred solar panels in the shape of the cross now glisten in the fall sun on the rooftop of Mercy Hospital Joplin.

The project has become one of the largest commercial solar projects in the area to take advantage of a one-time solar rebate offered by Empire District Electric Co., based in Joplin.

"Visitors to the hospital can look out their windows on the upper floors and see it," said Doug Neidigh, who is in charge of energy and sustainability for Mercy. "By putting it in the shape of a cross for Mercy, we also are trying to help with the awareness of solar energy at the same time."

Each panel produces 255 watts of electricity for a total of 25,500 watts, and an expected annual savings of $4,000. Being that the panels have an average life span of 25 years, the facility hopes to save around $100,000 in energy costs, based on existing rates.

Neidigh said the hospital is always looking at solar as an option, and being energy efficient right now is important when energy is costing more.

The rebate from Empire at $1 per watt provided a $25,000 incentive for Mercy. The project was managed by Missouri Sun Solar, who is doing more than 100 solar rebate projects in Empire’s service territory in Missouri. As of Sept. 4, Empire had received 170 rebate applications.

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Interested in learning more about Missouri’s efforts to enhance clean energy initiatives? Connect with the Missouri Division of Energy, which provides information and guidance to individuals, businesses, and communities on the use of renewable resources. Visit energy.mo.gov today!