Students from PCGS embark on a field trip to learn about renewable energy solutions.
On February 18, 2025, Dr. Pradeep, who leads the sustainable business concentration at the Patel College of Global Sustainability, took his students, affectionately known as 鈥渃onsultants-in-training,鈥� on an engaging field trip to the Tampa Electric Company (TECO) Clean Energy Center, right across from their Manatee Viewing Center.
During this immersive experience, they had the opportunity to engage with and witness
innovative renewable energy technologies. The visit featured four unique areas for
exploration and learning. Eager to dive into the world of sustainability, the enthusiastic
consultants donned their hard hats and set off on their educational adventure.
Net- Zero Microgrid Solutions
Students initially delved into net-zero microgrid solutions, which are designed to
reach net-zero carbon emissions by integrating renewable energy sources with energy
storage systems and cutting-edge technology, all within a localized microgrid framework.
The energy sources explored included flow batteries, supercapacitors, solar photovoltaic
systems, and innovative thin-film roof-integrated PV. This approach enables independent
power generation and management in specific locations, such as communities or factories,
reducing dependence on the central power grid and offering a self-sufficient, clean
energy alternative.
1 MW Floating Solar Pilot
Following this, students visited the floating solar installation, which features 3,452
solar panels mounted on floats and secured to the shoreline of a retention pond near
Apollo Beach. This installation is the largest floating solar array in Florida and
the first of its kind in the Tampa Bay area. By capturing clean energy from the water,
this solar pilot project will help TECO evaluate the feasibility of floating solar
solutions for future sustainable initiatives. Beyond generating clean energy, it also
promotes reduced land use, minimizes water evaporation from nearby bodies of water,
and enhances space efficiency.
Argo Solar Facility
Moreover, the trainees delved into TECO鈥檚 Agro Solar Facility. Located close to the
floating solar pilot, this facility represents TECO's inaugural venture into agrivoltaics,
which combines solar energy production with agricultural practices on the same land.
To accommodate the needs of farmers, they installed 2,688 double-sided solar panels,
allowing ample space for crop cultivation between and beneath the panels. This innovative
approach merges agriculture with solar technology, enabling TECO to scale up operations
and compare the performance of double-sided panels both on land and in aquatic environments.
Big Bend鈥檚 1,500-acre facility
Finally, the consultants-in-training had the opportunity to explore the impressive Big Bend facility, which spans 1,500 acres and plays a vital role in TECO鈥檚 energy generation efforts in Apollo Beach. This site boasts over 50 MW of utility-scale solar power and features advanced combined cycle generators capable of producing more than 2.6 GW of electricity for the Tampa Bay area. Notably, Big Bend's cooling system provides clean, warm water that attracts manatees seeking warmth during the winter months. The facility includes various generating units, including coal and natural gas, with a recent focus on decreasing coal reliance in favor of cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. Big Bend is committed to controlling emissions and safeguarding air and water quality.
All these initiatives align with Tampa Electric's ambitious Net-Zero Carbon vision
for 2050, which aims to transform electricity generation, lower carbon emissions,
and pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future. Dr. Pradeep and the students
from PCGS greatly valued this experience, gaining essential insights into renewable
energy solutions.