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The Classic Center Authority Completes Largest Municipal Rooftop Solar Installation in Georgia

Human InterestEconomicPress Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

For more information, contact:  

Ivy Ramage, Ivy@ClassicCenter.com 

706.357.4414 

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The Classic Center Authority Completes Largest Municipal Rooftop Solar Installation in Georgia 

ATHENS, GA – The Classic Center Authority is proud to announce the completion of the second phase of its ambitious solar panel installation project. This project positions The Classic Center and Akins Ford Arena as the site of Georgia's largest municipal rooftop solar energy system. In partnership with Cherry Street Energy, this groundbreaking initiative is a significant step forward in Athens-Clarke County's commitment to sustainability and renewable energy. 

“It is an honor to partner with Cherry Street Energy on this solar array project,” said Paul Cramer, President/CEO of The Classic Center. “I cannot thank Mayor Kelly Girtz and the ACC Commission enough for encouraging us to create a resource that is an asset to Athens in many ways. Building a facility that will be an economic driver for this community while reducing our carbon footprint is an incredible accomplishment.” 

The 1,600 solar panels installation on the rooftops of The Classic Center’s Grand Hall and Akins Ford Arena are projected to provide approximately 36% of The Classic Center facility’s annual electricity use. During the second phase, 648 solar panels were installed on the rooftop of Akins Ford Arena, providing an additional 12.5% of the projected annual electricity use for the arena. 
 
"These landmark projects at The Classic Center Authority underscore the tremendous potential for integrating renewable energy solutions into the built environment," says Michael Chanin, CEO of Cherry Street Energy. "Community leaders like The Classic Center are showing how to make tangible progress toward clean energy goals by using new and existing rooftops to harvest solar energy." 

  • Cherry Street will subcontract Metro Power for the wire pulls from the roof to the electrical room, breaker/ relay installation, commissioning, and energization. Once the Arena has permanent power, Cherry Street will get the site commissioned and work with Georgia Power to perform a witness test before the arena opens. 

  • The solar energy system ​will be constructed, owned, operated, and maintained​ by Cherry Street Energy with no upfront cost to The Classic Center Authority. Instead, The Classic Center and Akins Ford Arena will purchase electricity generated from the solar array at a fixed rate competitive with existing power costs. 

  • In May 2019, Athens Mayor Kelly Girtz and the ACC Commission passed a resolution supporting ACCG’s transition to 100% renewable energy, with a mission to complete this goal by 2035. 

  • Athens-Clarke County Commission unanimously approved an agreement to allow The Classic Center Authority to contract with Cherry Street Energy in November 2022 to assist the ACC Commission with meeting this goal to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2035. 

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About The Classic Center 

Located in Athens, Georgia, The Classic Center is a premier multi-use conference center, performing arts theatre, and covered outdoor pavilion. We host a wide range of events, including conventions, conferences, meetings, weddings, concerts, sporting tournaments, and special events, accommodating up to 6,000 people. In addition to our existing facilities, we are currently constructing a new arena, Akins Ford Arena, which will further enhance our ability to bolster the economic, entertainment, and cultural well-being of Athens. 

  

About Cherry Street Energy 

Cherry Street Energy is the leading provider of on-site renewable power solutions in the southeast. As a trailblazer in the renewable energy industry, the company offers comprehensive services, including the design, installation, ownership, operation and maintenance of industry-leading solar power systems. Cherry Street’s innovative approach removes the financial burden and complexities associated with solar installations, empowering customers to embrace sustainable energy solutions seamlessly. Its customer portfolio includes businesses like Porsche Cars North America and Gulfstream Aviation, and local governments like the City of Atlanta, Fulton County, and City of Savannah. Learn more at cherrystreet.com. 

The Classic Center Authority Completes Largest Municipal Rooftop Solar Installation in Georgia

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