Kofa High School, Yuma High School and Alternative High School received their panels without any upfront costs to the district as part of the APS Solar for Schools Program.
APS built, owns and maintains the system. The energy from the photovoltaic systems flows directly to the grid, and the schools benefit from a fixed rate for a portion of their electricity use for the next 20 years.
"This program presents a special opportunity for APS to further strengthen long-term partnerships with schools in Yuma County," said Rex Stepp, APS's Leader of Renewable Energy Programs. "APS is able to deploy more renewable energy, and the schools are able to incorporate solar power into their teaching curriculum. The students benefit by learning firsthand about the technology and the importance of taking advantage of one of Arizonas most abundant resources the sun."
The solar installations in the Yuma Union High School District include:
Kofa High School: 1,824 solar modules mounted on carport structures producing 547 kilowatts
Yuma High School: 780 solar modules mounted on carport structures producing 235 kilowatts
Vista Alternative High School: 780 solar modules mounted on carport structures producing 235 kilowatts
"Yuma Union High School District believes in the efficient and equitable use of resources, and has always championed creating school environments that prepare students for their future, not our past. The solar energy projects are great examples of that belief," said Toni Badone, Superintendent of Yuma Union High School District.
The APS Solar for Schools Program was offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
