Coronado, CA
The 9876 Shooting Range at Naval Base Coronado represents one of the most significant and technically complex solar projects in Stellar Solar’s federal portfolio. As a mission-critical military asset, the range requires high-capacity power to support its extensive electronic target systems, specialized tactical lighting, and large-scale ventilation units. To meet the rigorous energy and security standards of the U.S. Navy, Stellar Solar Commercial was selected to design and install a massive 461.29 kW (DC) hybrid photovoltaic system, transforming this essential training facility into a model of federal energy resilience.
Designing a solar solution for a military installation requires an elite level of engineering precision, strictly adhering to Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) and Department of Defense security protocols. The system at 9876 Shooting Range utilizes a hybrid approach, combining high-density rooftop modules with advanced bifacial technology to maximize every available square foot of the facility.
The technical architecture of this Coronado installation features:
-1,239 LG 365N2W-B3 High-Performance Modules: The primary rooftop array consists of over 1,200 premium LG modules. Engineered for maximum efficiency and durability in the harsh, salt-air coastal environment of Coronado, these panels provide the core energy generation needed to sustain the range’s high-draw operational loads.
-36 Prism Solar BI60 343W Bifacial Modules: To further enhance the system’s output, we integrated specialized Prism Solar bifacial panels. These modules capture sunlight from both sides, utilizing the reflected light from the facility’s surfaces to “boost” total energy production—a critical feature for maintaining power during coastal morning marine layers.
-461.29 kW (DC) Total Capacity: This utility-scale system was precisely engineered to offset a massive portion of the range’s electrical footprint, significantly reducing the facility’s reliance on the local grid and lowering taxpayer-funded energy expenditures.
In the 2026 defense landscape, energy independence is a matter of operational readiness. By generating a substantial portion of its own power on-site, the 9876 Shooting Range enhances the resilience of Naval Base Coronado. In the event of grid instability or regional power outages, on-site solar assets ensure that vital training facilities remain operational, supporting the mission-readiness of the Pacific Fleet.
The financial impact of this 461-kW installation is equally profound. By leveraging the abundance of the Southern California sun, the Navy is effectively “locking in” its energy costs for the next two decades. This creates a permanent, sustainable stream of savings that can be redirected toward:
-Tactical Infrastructure Upgrades: Investing in the latest small-arms training technology and electronic target systems.
-Facility Modernization: Maintaining the high standards of safety and ventilation required for indoor and outdoor shooting environments.
-Federal Sustainability Goals: Helping the Department of Defense meet its mandates for renewable energy adoption and carbon footprint reduction.
Since 1998, Stellar Solar Commercial has been a preferred partner for California’s most sensitive federal and municipal landmarks. We bring over 28 years of technical expertise to these high-stakes projects, navigating the complex permitting, security clearances, and structural requirements of military bases with professional precision.
Our in-house team handles the entire lifecycle of the project—from initial structural roof analysis and ballistic-safety considerations to navigating the complex utility interconnection processes within federal microgrids. We specialize in working within “live” military environments, ensuring that training schedules and base security remain the top priority throughout the construction phase.
As we move through 2026, the strategy for critical defense facilities has evolved to include Solar + Battery Storage. For large-scale assets like the 9876 Shooting Range, the infrastructure laid by this 461-kW array provides the perfect foundation for future battery integration. This would allow the facility to store excess daytime energy for use during evening training exercises or to provide mission-critical backup power during emergency scenarios.
Stellar Solar Commercial continues to lead this energy revolution, helping our nation’s military leaders build a resilient, low-cost energy future. We turn critical infrastructure into powerful tools for sustainability and national defense.
If your agency, municipal department, or government facility is ready to follow the lead of Naval Base Coronado and reclaim control over your energy future, contact Stellar Solar Commercial today at 866.787.6527. We provide comprehensive, free site evaluations to help your organization lead the way.