San Diego, CA
The Jacob Weinberger United States Courthouse is a historic landmark in the heart of San Diego, serving as the city’s oldest federal building. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the courthouse is a stunning example of Classical Revival and Spanish Renaissance architecture. For a building of such immense historical and civic importance, any modernization must be handled with extreme precision. In 2017, the General Services Administration (GSA) sought to improve the facility’s energy efficiency without altering the protected historic facade of the 1913 structure.
Stellar Solar Commercial was selected to design and install a high-performance solar carport system that would provide clean energy to the federal complex while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the surrounding district.
The Weinberger Courthouse project presented unique challenges, requiring a balance between modern renewable technology and the strict preservation standards of a federal historic site. Because a traditional rooftop installation was not an option for the terracotta-tiled roof, Stellar Solar Commercial engineered a specialized carport solution for the facility’s surface parking lot.
Activated in March 2017, the system features:
-155 kW DC Capacity: A robust array designed to offset a significant portion of the courthouse’s daily electrical load.
-500 Hyundai 310W Modules: High-efficiency panels selected for their long-term durability and consistent performance in the San Diego sun.
-Durable Steel Racking: A custom-designed carport structure that provides secure, shaded parking for federal employees and visitors while serving as the foundation for the solar array.
By utilizing the parking area for energy generation, Stellar Solar Commercial allowed the GSA to achieve its sustainability goals without making a single penetration or alteration to the historic courthouse building itself. This project serves as a premier example of how “Green Government” initiatives can be successfully integrated into urban environments where roof space is either limited or historically protected.
The 155 kW system turns the courthouse’s parking lot into a productive asset, generating thousands of kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually. This not only reduces the facility’s reliance on the grid but also provides a visible symbol of San Diego’s commitment to a renewable future, right in the center of the downtown judicial district.
Since 1998, Stellar Solar Commercial has established itself as the leading provider for complex, high-security solar projects in Southern California. Our experience with federal and municipal entities—including work for the City of Tustin and various educational districts—demonstrates our ability to navigate the rigorous permitting, security, and engineering standards required for public works.
We bring over 28 years of technical expertise to every project, ensuring that even the most sensitive sites are handled with professional care. From initial site feasibility and structural engineering to final grid interconnection, our team provides a seamless, turnkey experience for commercial and government clients alike.
The Weinberger Courthouse installation highlights the versatility of solar carport technology. As energy costs continue to rise in 2026, these structures offer an ideal “double-benefit” for commercial and civic properties: providing essential shade and protection for vehicles while simultaneously slashing monthly utility bills.
Stellar Solar Commercial is proud to have played a role in the modernization of this San Diego landmark. We continue to lead the way in providing innovative energy solutions that honor the past while securing a sustainable future.
If your organization is looking to transform its parking infrastructure into a source of clean, reliable energy, contact Stellar Solar Commercial today at 858-395-6905. We provide comprehensive site evaluations and expert engineering to help your facility thrive in the new energy economy..