Solar Energy System Will Cut Hot Water Cost at Detention Center

Blue Ridge Now

The Henderson County Detention Center, a 543-occupant detention facility, will cut hot water costs by 45 percent through the installation of a solar energy system from Asheville-based renewable energy firm SolTherm.

The solar hot water system, installed December 2011, consists of 32 collector panels, which receive the sun’s energy and transfer it to heat the facility’s water supply. The water is stored in an insulated tank and is used as needed throughout the day for laundry, showering, and kitchen preparation, allowing for available hot water even when the sun is not shining.