The city of Mesa begins its construction of solar panel canopies on Monday.
The canopies will be built at Mesa Main Library at First and Center streets to provide both covered parking for visitors and energy for the city’s electric utility.
City spokesperson Kevin Christopher says the installation is part of an initiative to implement solar panels in four downtown locations.
“It creates additional locally generated energy for electric system resiliency. It diversifies the city's energy supply to minimize the effects of high electric market pricing. It supports the city's renewable energy goals and it offers shaded parking for about 660 spaces in downtown Mesa," he said.
As a result of the construction, people who want to use the library will only be able to access parking from Centennial Street. Construction is expected to last until March.
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