Who is funding this solar project at EMU?
Secure Futures, LLC will install, own and maintain the solar panels on the EMU campus. EMU will "host" the solar facility, and buy electricity generated from the panels from Secure Futures at a predetermined price through a power purchase agreement.
When will the panels be installed?
Subject to financing and all necessary approvals, the panels will be installed during the summer and fall of 2010.
How big is the project?
600KW of power will be generated during peak sunshine conditions. This will provide as much as 12% of EMU’s peak power consumption, and is equivalent to the power needs of approx. 200 homes. This is an approximate figure. Sometimes the panels will generate less than 12% when the sun is not at peak, or during cloudy days, and sometimes more if consumption is low such as on nice spring and fall days when air conditioning is not running.
What will the project look like?
Approximately 100 kW of solar panels will be installed on the roof of Hartzler Library, and another 500 kW of solar panels on metal structure parking canopies over the parking lot on the North side of University Commons building. Vehicles will still be able to park under the solar panels. The solar panel canopies in the parking lot will also be tilted at 10 degrees, and will be approximately 9 to 18 feet tall. The panels will be similar in appearance to the illustrative images below.
What past projects has the university undertaken in terms of renewable energy?
EMU recently installed Solar Domestic hot water collectors on a new dormitory. The system is not yet commissioned.
Do you foresee any future additional green movements at the university? If so, what?
This project is the latest in a long history of commitments to energy conservation that grows out of the university's theological commitment to care for creation. There is a growing awareness and integration of sustainability into curriculum and daily life around the campus.
As a result of EMU's installation will members of the community will be inspired to purchase their own solar panels?
Yes, recently a community member asked if a 1 KW collector could be placed on his house.
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