A new solar power plant near Queen Creek is supplying electricity to more than 100 schools in 11 Valley districts.

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Arizona is an ideal place to utilize solar electricity. But the decision to invest in a solar installation on your home can be complicated.

It did not take long for the solar power system installed at the Queen Creek Olive Mill to perform as advertised.

It did not take long for the solar power system installed at the Queen Creek Olive Mill to perform as advertised.

It did not take long for the solar power system installed at the Queen Creek Olive Mill to perform as advertised.

On land once farmed for alfalfa in the middle of fields and new homes, thousands of solar panels sit quietly generating electricity for Salt River Project.

When you think of Salt River Project, chances are you think no further than the light switch or utility bill. But behind the curtain there's a lot that goes into ensuring the lights come on when you flip that switch.

When you think of Salt River Project, chances are you think no further than the light switch or utility bill. But behind the curtain there's a lot that goes into ensuring the lights come on when you flip that switch.

With temperatures finally falling and the holidays near, it’s easy to forget we live in the desert. Reliable water and electricity supplies are the foundations for our thriving metropolitan area.

We encourage readers to submit letters to the editor on issues of interest to East Valley residents. Submissions should be no longer than 300 words, factually accurate and original thoughts of the writer. Please be brief and include name, address, city and phone number for verification. Letters and comments may be edited for clarity and length.