Florida Schools Deploy Solar Arrays

• By David Nagel
• 04/15/09

Six schools in Florida will be the sites for new solar arrays that will provide electricity to the campus and offer hands-on science learning activities for students.

The arrays, dubbed "Next Generation Solar Education Stations," are being provided by Florida Power & Light Co. (FPL), an electric utility in Florida. They'll be used to generate emissions-free electricity and to provide educational opportunities for students, who can use the arrays to learn how solar power works.

Each station will generate 5 kW of electricity and will save each school about $800 per year in electrical costs, according to FPL.

Recipients of the solar arrays include Deerfield Beach Middle School, Hinson Middle School, J.D. Parker Elementary School, L.A. Ainger Middle School, Mandarin Lakes Academy K-8 Center, and SunCoast Community High School.

The FPL Group Foundation, the philanthropic arm of FPL, is paying for the installation at the six pilot schools. SunPower Corp., a manufacturer of solar systems and components, is partnering with FPL on the initiative.

About the Author

David Nagel is editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Technology Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal and STEAM Universe. A 25-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art and business publications.

He can be reached at dnagel@1105media.com. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at or follow him on Twitter at @THEJournalDave (K-12) or @CampusTechDave (higher education).