By Patrick Yeagle
Barney's Furniture in Springfield has completed a solar installation after receiving a building permit last week.
The store at 1987 Wabash Ave. obtained a permit from the City of Springfield building and zoning division on July 11 to install 25 kilowatts of solar power.
Barney's president Barry Seidman says it made sense to install the panels, not only for the environment, but also because the local, state and federal incentives created to help offset the cost.
"It was really an economic decision," he said.
Springfield-based WindSolarUSA installed the panels last week over about a five-day period, says WindSolarUSA founder Michelle Knox. She says the projected payback period for Barney's Furniture is about 4.6 years, adding that the cost per watt for solar panel has dropped significantly over the past decade, from $6.50 per watt in 2008 to $2.82 currently.
"That's using American-made panels and union labor," she said.
Wiring for the project was done by Senergy Electric Inc. The project valuation was $70,155.
Other permits issued by the City of Springfield recently include the following:
Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation obtained a vacant building registration permit for 501 E. Capitol Ave. The project is a renovation of the former Methodist church to house the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce and several apartments. The permit indicates roof repairs are to begin within 30 days and construction is to begin within 90 to 120 days.
WIBC Inc. obtained a permit for electrical service installation at the West Iles Business Center, 3240 W. Iles Ave. The 24,000-square-foot building is currently under construction.
United Parcel Services (UPS) obtained a permit for a new metal building at 3140 Wide Track Drive. The building is 24 feet by 36 feet. The project valuation is $142,418.
Miguel Navedo obtained a permit to remodel Metro PCS at 310 South Grand Ave. East. Navedo is the contractor, and the project is valued at $5,000.
Contact Patrick Yeagle at [email protected].
