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A new solar power installation is creating a brighter future for students at Southwest Junior High School in Lawrence, Kansas. A 1.2 kilowatt solar electric power system has been installed on the roof of the main entrance to the school, a location selected to spark the students’ interest about the workings and benefits of renewable energy.
The solar installation was funded through a unique partnership between the Douglas County Community Foundation’s Elizabeth Schultz Environmental Fund and the Bonneville Environmental Foundation’s Zephyr Energy Program. The Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF) has collaborated with Lawrence energy producer The Bowersock Mills & Power Company to create Zephyr Energy, a “green tag” product that allows area businesses to purchase renewable energy certificates, the proceeds of which are helping fund the solar project at Southwest.
In addition to producing clean, renewable energy to help offset a portion of the school’s electricity use, Southwest’s solar power system includes a curriculum package that uses the web-based, real-time data generated by the installation to provide students with a comprehensive learning experience. |
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