Screenshot of solar canopy video demonstration. Image credit Paired Power website

Solar microgrid manufacturer Paired Power will provide on-site energy for electric vehicle charging for the EV fleet of investor-owned-utility California American Water.

Paired Power will supply its solar EV charger PairTree technology that can be used in connection with the grid or off the grid if power is out. California American Water estimates that the benefits of EV infrastructure could prevent 4,472 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions—or the approximate weight of one Tesla Model Y—by charging one EV instead of fueling a gas-powered car for one year.

“We are excited to work with Paired Power to complete this important project that will allow us to reduce our carbon footprint and reduce costs to customers,” Kevin Tilden, president of California American Water, said in a statement. “Utilizing Paired Power’s clean electric power and storage reflects California American Water’s disaster-preparedness and commitment to help meet (the state’s) emission reduction goals and improve locals’ air quality, health and safety.”

The PairTree technology is a U.S.-made solar-storage canopy which is connected both to grid power and on-site battery storage. The 4.6-kW solar array and 42.4-kWh battery also can provide emergency backup power during grid outages, the company says.

The device can be installed within a day and fits into the standard 9-by-18 foot parking space, according to reports. It includes capability for Level 2 EV charging ports.

California American Water provides water and wastewater services to more than 725,000 residents in the state. It is a subsidiary of American Water.

Paired Power also has delivered a smaller microgrid project in Campbell, California, for the state’s Public Works Service Center. The solar-storage canopy provides charging for electric pickup trucks and other e-fleet vehicles.