Solar Zone @ the UA Tech Park

In a world where demand for energy is growing as non-renewable supplies are diminishing, many nations are rapidly developing renewable energy sources as a way to secure their future energy demand. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) identifies the University of Arizona Tech Park (UA Tech Park) as one of the best locations in Arizona for solar energy production. The 200-acre area designated Solar Zone @ The Tech Park (Solar Zone) is viewed as the centerpiece that could help Tucson become one of the leading solar energy producers and innovators in the world. The Planning Center prepared the Site Analysis and Development Guidelines for the Solar Zone. The Solar Zone includes five major components: solar energy development, generation and distribution; research and development; manufacture and distribution of solar energy hardware; workforce education for all phases of solar equipment, from manufacturing to installation; and education and awareness, including the Solar Garden.