South Tahoe Utility District Celebrates New Solar Array

The largest solar project in the Tahoe Basin will power the district's wastewater treatment plant with renewable energy.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:51pm

A bold, abstract painting in the style of Hilma af Klint, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals in earthy tones of green, blue, and gold, conceptually representing the complex solar energy system and its integration with the wastewater treatment plant.STPUD's new solar array, the largest in the Tahoe Basin, will harness renewable energy to power the district's wastewater treatment plant for decades to come.South Lake Tahoe Today

The South Tahoe Public Utility District (STPUD) is hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony on April 29 to celebrate the completion of its new solar array, the largest in the Tahoe Basin. The solar project is expected to generate around 2 million kilowatt-hours annually, offsetting about one-third of the wastewater treatment plant's energy use and resulting in significant long-term cost savings for the district.

Why it matters

The solar array reflects STPUD's commitment to sustainability, cost efficiency, and reliable service for the community. By investing in renewable energy, the district is reducing greenhouse gas emissions and taking steps toward a more sustainable future for the Tahoe region.

The details

The new solar array features elevated and angled panels to shed snow naturally, as well as bifacial technology to capture sunlight reflected off snow surfaces and boost winter energy production. The project was made possible through regional collaboration with agencies like the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and the City of South Lake Tahoe.

  • The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m.
  • The solar array is expected to generate approximately 2 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.

The players

South Tahoe Public Utility District (STPUD)

A public utility district that provides water and wastewater services to the South Lake Tahoe community.

Shane Romsos

The STPUD Board President.

Nick Exline

A member of the STPUD Board.

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What they’re saying

“This project reflects our responsibility to both our ratepayers and the environment. By investing in proven solar technology, we are reducing costs, increasing energy independence, and supporting a cleaner future for our region.”

— Shane Romsos, STPUD Board President

“STPUD's solar project is a community success. By embracing renewable energy, we're not only reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but also taking meaningful steps toward a more sustainable and resilient future.”

— Nick Exline, STPUD Board Member

What’s next

STPUD continues to explore future enhancements to the solar array, such as battery storage and additional efficiency upgrades at the wastewater treatment plant.

The takeaway

STPUD's investment in the largest solar array in the Tahoe Basin demonstrates the utility's commitment to sustainability, cost savings, and environmental stewardship. This project sets an example for other regional organizations to embrace renewable energy and work towards a more sustainable future.