NV Energy gives Reno $1 million solar incentive

RENO, NEVADA - The city of Reno has received $1 million as an incentive payment from NV Energy Inc. for installing solar panels on a downtown parking garage and the Reno Events Center.

Utility officials presented the check to Mayor Bob Cashell before the Reno Bighorns basketball game.

NV Energy says the solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity will reduce the city's annual electricity consumption by about 420,000 kilowatt hours, and save about $55,000.

The incentive program was created by Nevada Legislature as a way to encourage investment in renewable energy. Homeowners, small businesses, schools and public buildings are eligible for payments that help offset the cost of installing solar panels.