Each school’s system, rated at 1.1 kilowatt (kW), includes the solar panels, the installation work, and a curriculum package that helps teachers instruct students on the function of the systems and the impact of clean renewable energy on the environment.

Through a unique collaboration in support of the Solar 4R Schools program, BEF, the Energy Trust of Oregon (Energy Trust), Portland General Electric (PGE), and Green Mountain Energy Company are able to supply the solar power systems at no cost to the schools.

“As an organization dedicated to energy efficiency and renewable energy generation, the Energy Trust is extremely proud to help fund these solar power projects,” said Peter West, director of renewables at the Energy Trust of Oregon. “This program directly supports our mission to change how Oregonians produce and use energy by investing in efficient technologies and renewable resources. Reaching out to our schools in this way will help carry our mission forward as generation after generation learns about solar power.”

“Today’s students can look forward to a future increasingly powered by clean energy from the sun,” said Thor Hinckley, PGE’s renewable power programs manager. “The solar panels on the schools will give them the inside track on this exciting technology and how it can help the environment too. We thank PGE's renewable power customers for helping fund this project.”

Each participating school has a strong commitment from its administration, and a similar commitment from a designated solar “champion” (e.g., a teacher or other school staff member) who will lead the educational efforts. The curriculum package included with each school’s solar power system uses web-based, real-time data generated by each installation. More information about the Solar 4R Schools program is available at www.b-e-f.org/grants/solar.shtm.

About BEF
The Bonneville Environmental Foundation, a non-profit organization, was established in 1998 to restore watershed ecosystems and further the development and use of new renewable energy resources. Through revenues generated from the sales of green power products, BEF funds projects that restore damaged watersheds and support new renewable energy projects from solar, wind and biomass. BEF pioneered the sale of Green Tags in 2000 and has helped establish national standards for certification and trading. Created by regional environmental groups and the Bonneville Power Administration, the Foundation operates collaboratively with but independent of both.

About Energy Trust
Energy Trust of Oregon, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that promotes energy efficiency and clean renewable energy for Oregon customers of Pacific Power, Portland General Electric and NW Natural. For more information, visit the Energy Trust website, www.energytrust.org, or call 1-866-ENTRUST (368-7878).

About PGE
Portland General Electric is a recognized leader in the utility industry with more than a century of experience delivering safe and reliable electricity. PGE serves more than 755,000 retail customers in the Northwest. The company supports the community through a variety of innovative philanthropic, volunteer and environmental stewardship efforts. Visit www.PortlandGeneral.com.

About Green Mountain Energy Company
Founded in 1997 to change the way power is made, Green Mountain Energy Company (www.greenmountain.com) offers residential, business, institutional and governmental customers the choice to support cleaner electricity generated from sources such as wind, solar, water, geothermal, biomass and natural gas. Due to Green Mountain Energy Company’s efforts, about 600,000 customers nationwide are purchasing electricity that is significantly less polluting than typical system power. The company is based in Austin, Texas.