SunSmart Ames is a community municipal solar project in Ames, IA. The City of Ames collaborated with ForeFront Power to develop the 2 MW solar installation, which was completed in 2020. This community-focused project site features a pollinator project and seasonal sheep grazing. 

Ames operates its own municipal utility serving approximately 60,000 people with a mix of natural gas, refuse derived fuel (RDF), and wind power. SunSmart Ames expanded that portfolio to include solar, offering it directly to customers through purchasable shares called "Power Packs."

Each Power Pack represents 175 watts of capacity and provides approximately $1 in monthly credits throughout the 20-year contract term. Initially priced at $300, Power Pack costs decrease by $15 annually to reflect the remaining contract duration, with the 2025 price set at $240. While financial returns are possible, most buyers are primarily motivated by supporting renewable energy in their community.

Ideal Energy designed and built the array, while ForeFront Power served as the project developer, providing financing and offering a power purchasing agreement (PPA) to the city.

Specifications

Solar Energy: 2 MW (AC) / 2.2 MW (DC)

Modules: (1,170) JA Solar JAM72S01 370 watt & (4,732) JA Solar JAM72S01 375 watt

Inverters: (16) Sungrow SG125HV 125kW

Racking: fixed 30° tilt