Connecticut High School Goes Solar
- By Caitlin Moriarity
- 04/02/12
Greenwich High School, part of the Greenwich Public Schools district (GPS), has just turned on its new 7.7-kilowatt solar energy system, with the help of the Connecticut Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority (CEFIA) and Mercury Solar Systems.
Funding for the system, which is expected to produce 8,800 kWh of energy for Greenwich High School, was provided through a grant by CEFIA. In order to become eligible for the funding, the Town of Greenwich had to meet the standards of a Clean Energy Community, as part of the Clean Energy Communities Program sponsored by CEFIA. Greenwich met the standards in January 2010, allowing the solar panel installation at Greenwich High School to go forward.
Mercury Solar Systems, a solar integrator that designs and installs solar panels and energy systems for residential and commercial customers, designed and installed the solar photovoltaic system on the science building at Greenwich High School back in November 2011. The company is headquartered in Port Chester, NY, but has satellite offices in several East Coast towns, including Greenwich, CT.
"We are excited about the possibilities this system offers, from energy savings to providing a learning tool for our students," said Roger Lulow, superintendent of schools at GPS. "The District understands the importance of being green and we hope Greenwich can serve as a role model for other Connecticut schools."
Greenwich High School, located in Greenwich, CT, serves approximately 2,700 students in grades 9-12. Greenwich Public Schools educates 8,800 students with eleven elementary schools, three middle schools, and one high school.
To learn more about the project, visit greenwichschools.org, mercurysolarsystems.com, or ctcleanenergy.com/educationalprograms.
About the Author
Caitlin Moriarity is a freelance technology writer based in St. Louis, MO. She can be reached at [email protected].