Knox County Schools Add Solar Energy as Part of County Initiative -- THE Journal

Major Hardware and Infrastructure

Knox County Schools Add Solar Energy as Part of County Initiative

By Joshua Bolkan
09/29/15

Eleven schools in Knox County, TN will get new solar photovoltaic panels as a result of a deal between the county and a private partner.

The $12.45 million project comprises 14 arrays--11 at as many schools and one more each at the county's Central Building and its detention and juvenile justice facilities--and is projected to save the county more than $29 million in energy savings over its three-decade span.

One of the arrays, a sample installation at L&N STEM Academy, will feature a kiosk with a monitoring display to provide interactive learning opportunities for students.

"In addition to the financial and environmental benefits, this project will provide our school system with a tremendously valuable educational tool to teach our students about renewable energy technologies, and emphasize to the future leaders of our community the importance of sustainability," said Jim Mclntyre, superintendent of Knox County Schools, in a prepared statement.

Amaresco began construction on the arrays, which together total more than 5 megawatts, in August. The project is scheduled for completion in early 2016.

About the Author

Joshua Bolkan is contributing editor for Campus Technology, THE Journal and STEAM Universe. He can be reached at [email protected].

E-Mail this page

Printable Format

Featured

McGraw Hill Acquires Essaypop Digital Learning Tool

Education company McGraw Hill has announced the acquisition of Essaypop, a cloud-based writing tool that will enhance the former's portfolio of personalized learning capabilities.
Google to Acquire Cloud Security Firm Wiz in $32 Billion Deal

Google has announced it will acquire cloud security startup Wiz for $32 billion. If completed, the acquisition — an all-cash deal — would mark the largest in Google's history.
Research: 1 in 3 Kids Use AI for Learning

In a survey of parents with children aged 8 or younger, nearly a third of respondents (29%) said their child has used AI for school-related learning, according to a new report from Common Sense Media.
Copilot Chat and Microsoft 365 Copilot to Become Available for Teen Students

This summer, Microsoft is expanding availability of its Copilot Chat and Microsoft 365 Copilot products for students aged 13 and older. Administrators will be able to grant access for students based on their institution's plans and preferences, the company announced in a blog post.