Orange County’s first solar-powered, streetside trash compactor was installed on a Mission Viejo walkway Friday, as promised, and accepted its first bit of trash with little fanfare — and no noise.

The compactor, about the size of a 35-gallon trash can, will compact 85 gallons of material before it has to be emptied. Waste Management, which has deployed the compactors in Los Angeles, Oceanside, Philadelphia and other cities, plans to scatter them around Orange County as well.

Power is stored in a 12-volt battery, so it can compact even when the sun is not shining. A small solar panel covers the top of the can, and beside it is a twin receptacle without a compactor for recyclable material.

“It pays for itself in two years,” said David Ross, director of public sector services for Waste Management of Orange County. “And you’re doing the right thing. It’s sustainable, and (its) life is indefinite.”

Cities can obtain grant and stimulus money to buy the devices, which at full price sell for about $2,500 each, he said.

As a demonstration, Ross triggered the compactor, bolted into place on a walkway between City Hall and the city’s library, after the first bits of trash were tossed in. Only an indicator light suggested anything was happening. The compactor could not be heard.

The devices will likely be installed in parks, ballfields and around public buildings. Because they cut down on the number of collection trips needed to empty them, they can reduce equipment, labor and fuel costs, he said.

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