A Taco Bell unit in Albany, Calif., has earned a PG&E rebate check for installing a solar hot water system. The incentive is part of the CSI-Thermal program for commercial and multi-family applications.
According to Renewable Energy Magazine, the restaurant, owned by PRB Management LLC, completely replaced its existing system to reduce its carbon footprint and improve operating costs. The new water system is ideal for Taco Bell, which uses hot water for dishwashing, sanitation and restrooms.
A solar heating system was chosen over a more common photovoltaic solar system because of the restaurant’s limited roof space. It entails two collectors, a solar surface area and a solar storage tank.
The system saves a big portion of hot water usage and thousands of dollars in operating costs, and also protects from freeze damage and overheating.
Taco Bell’s rebate for more than $3,600, coupled with a federal tax credit of 30 percent, reduced the total cost of the system by half. The system is anticipated to run for 30-plus years.
A similar solar heating option was installed by Sun Light & Power at another Taco Bell unit near Sacramento, Calif.
