September 3, 2001—In an effort to encourage productive use of abandoned and contaminated properties (brownfields), the US Department of Energy is working with local governments and industry to develop brownfields as “Brightfields,” or sites for solar energy systems. These Brightfields address economic development, environmental cleanup, and air quality challenges by bringing pollution-free solar energy and high-tech solar manufacturing jobs to brownfield sites. Some examples of current projects include the placement of a solar energy manufacturing plant, building-integrated solar energy systems, and solar electric systems on brownfields.
According to DOE, solar energy technologies—and photovoltaic systems in particular—are well suited for use on brownfields because they require little maintenance and can stand directly on the ground without penetrating the surface or disturbing any existing contamination. The systems can be installed to function on or off the local power grid, depending upon the needs of the site and existing infrastructure, and will not add pollution to the environment.
Industry professionals can find out more about the Brightfields program in their area by contacting either DOE headquarters or a DOE regional office.
