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Knox County Schools Add Solar Energy as Part of County Initiative

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].

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