Harnessing solar energy to battle rising energy costs, Scottsdale-based Kyocera Solar Inc. and installer Dynamic Solar Solutions said this week that Kyocera solar modules have been installed atop Emilio Bacardi Group’s San Juan, Puerto Rico, headquarters.

Producing 34,533 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually, the 24.75 kW system will offset 100 percent of the building’s power needs, pay for itself within five years with the support of government incentives for 30 percent of the cost and provide a stellar example of renewable energy power.

“We’ve installed Kyocera solar panels previously on our shopping centers, residences and other properties, so we know firsthand about their outstanding performance,” Dynamic Solar Solutions President Eng. Leo Lebron said.

Installed on a steel base, the Kyocera solar modules allow the company to enjoy the roof as a covered terrace while providing ample service access. The project balances aesthetics with strict building codes requiring enough strength to endure hurricane-force winds. The system recently withstood Tropical Storm Erika in late August.

“Kyocera solar modules have a track record for providing long-term, reliable PV electricity that supports businesses by stabilizing electricity costs to enable further growth,” Hitoshi Atari, president of Kyocera Solar, said. “By installing Kyocera solar modules, the Emilio Bacardi Group headquarters not only gains a functional terrace with ample shade on its rooftop, but a strong competitive advantage.”

With Caribbean electricity prices among the world’s highest, rates in Puerto Rico often double U.S. prices. Kyocera has worked for four decades developing reliable solar modules designed to offset rising utility prices. The Emilio Bacardi Group, whose island presence spans the same time period, owns 10 energy-related corporations, including Dynamic Solar Solutions and Caribbean Energy Distributor Corp.

“We offer Kyocera solar panels exclusively to our customers because of their longstanding proven high quality,” Juan Carlos Díaz-Galarza, vice president of operations for Caribbean Energy Distributor Corp., said. “So it was an easy decision when it came to providing a solar system for our parent company.”