Cox Communications recently completed its first commercial solar installation in Avondale, Ariz.

Cox partnered with Alpha Energy, a division of Alpha Technologies, on the project. Cox will use the energy from the system to power its Avondale operations, with the excess power being fed back into the utility grid for distribution throughout the region.

Comprising two systems, the 75 kilowatt Cox Avondale installation required 276 photovoltaic panels. Combined, the systems will generate more than 115,000 kilowatt-hours per year, enough to power 11 homes and prevent the emissions of more than 142,000 pounds of CO2.

“Continuing the commitment of our founder Governor Cox, who was committed to conservation practices, Cox Communications was pleased to partner with Alpha Technologies to carry that commitment to a new generation through the installation of solar power systems in our facilities across the state,” said Ivan Johnson, vice president of community relations at Cox Communications Arizona.

Cox has its own Web site that’s dedicated to its green initiatives.

Earlier this month, the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers announced its Smart Energy Management Initiative (SEMI) to facilitate “green” best practices in the industry, including solar voltaic.