Dead Horse Point State Park
Renewable Energy Project

The 330-watt solar array at the overlook restroom.

Two restrooms at Dead Horse Point State Park, at the overlook and at the campsite, are not connected to the electric utility. The water pressure in the restrooms was not adequate to provide the necessary flow for the toilets and sinks. The cost-effective solution was to install solar-powered pressure pumps. Light fixtures were also installed in the restrooms.

The cost of running utility lines to the two restrooms was estimated to be $100,000. Alternatively, generators could be installed at each restroom for less money than the photovoltaic (PV) systems, however, over the life of the project, generators would cost more due to higher maintenance costs and the need to purchase fuel. In addition, the PV systems eliminate the noise and emissions generators would create.

Employees of the Utah Division of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the Utah State Energy Program installed the PV system in the spring of 2003.

System Specifications for Each Photovoltaic System

Solar Array Rated Output

330 watts

Inverter Capacity

No Inverter

Battery Capacity

530 amp-hours (12.7 kWh)

DC Nominal Voltage

24 volts

AC Nominal Voltage

No AC voltage

Year installed

2003

Cost

$6,188 (equipment only, includes the solar equipment as well as the pump and plumbing supplies)


Overlook Restroom
The batteries are housed in an enclosure behind the restroom. A Division of Parks and Recreation employee is wiring the pump.
Campsite Restroom
The group campsite restroom with the photovoltaic array in the background. The solar equipment, pump, and pressure tank are located in the utility closet of the restroom.
Dept of Natural Resources Dept of Natural Resources