Less a year ago, Entercom Denver and 10-kW Adult Standards KEZW Studio 1430 AM Denver broke ground on a historic project in radio history. In a move designed to reduce dependency on the power grid and showcase the power of renewable energy, Entercom and KEZW installed 40 solar panels in Littleton, Colorado. As a result, the 100-kilowatt solar array at KEZW Studio 1430 AM has become the largest radio station in the US to be powered by the sun and monthly energy costs have dropped 80%.
“I’m thrilled KEZW is leading the way in the use of renewable energy and operating our transmitter with solar power,” said Rick Crandall, KEZW program director and host of the Breakfast Club. “From the timeless music of the 40s, 50s, and 60s to our long-time commitment to the veterans of Colorado, KEZW is a station steeped in history. Today we make history by using the most advanced 21st century technology to power our signal.”
“This is a proud day for Entercom. We take seriously our responsibilities as a good corporate citizen and believe we all must act as good stewards of the planet,” said David Field, Entercom President and CEO. “With the completion of this project, over 67% of all of our Denver power is now provided by solar and wind.”
RBR-TVBR asked Field a bit more about the 1Thing initiative. How many other Entercom stations might be doing something similar like KEZW in going to alternative energy? (is there a plan to?)”: “We take seriously our responsibilities as a good corporate citizen and believe we all must act as good stewards of the planet. Entercom’s 1Thing Initiative is a results orientated plan to become more energy efficient, promote environmental causes, and reduce our carbon footprint.”
KEZW celebrated the completion of the solar project by broadcasting Rick Crandall’s Breakfast Club live from the KEZW Solar Site 10/19 from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. A formal solar garden dedication took place at 10 a.m. Gates opened at 8 a.m. with KEZW engineers on site to answer questions about the reception and solar power.
Said Jeff Garrett, chief engineer at Entercom Denver: “The KEZW solar project has been challenging and exciting for me. The science that allows that production of electricity from photons of light is cutting edge. We are excited about the future and I’m honored to be part of converting sunlight into radio waves.”
This solar project is just part of Entercom’s 1Thing environmental initiative. 1Thing is based on the premise if everyone would do one thing to improve the environment every day, our world would be a better place to live in for generations to come.
