Officials from the Hemet Unified School District today announced a partnership to create 4.4 MW in solar electric projects across 17 district sites. A formal groundbreaking ceremony will take place at the districts offices the site of the first installation on Tuesday, Oct. 18.
The installations will serve as solar power-generating shade structures for elementary, middle and high schools throughout the Hemet Unified School District. Composed of more than 19,000 solar modules, the projects are estimated to save about $300,000 in annual electricity costs.
The incorporation of solar power at our schools and operational facilities reflects the districts commitment to promoting environmentally sustainable practices and sets a positive example for the greater Hemet community, all while providing exceptional economic benefits at a time when they are needed most. The District will receive a tremendous benefit without spending a single dollar out-of-pocket, said Steven Lowder, superintendent for the Hemet Unified School District.
Each system was financed through a SurePath Solar power purchase agreement (PPA) from San Francisco-based Tioga Energy, a leading provider of renewable energy services to commercial, government and non-profit institutions. Johnson Controls Inc. will provide engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for all 17 installations.
The Hemet Unified School District saw the full potential of implementing a solar PPA to hedge against rising electricity costs and achieve significant savings, enabling officials to devote more resources where they truly matter its students and staff, said Paul Detering, CEO of Tioga Energy. We look forward to celebrating the districts renewable energy achievements alongside those who came together to make it happen.
We will create a long-term educational tool for thousands of students, allowing them to witness the benefits of clean energy on a daily basis, said Claudio Andreetta, regional vice president and general manager, Building Efficiency, for Johnson Controls. And these projects will offset an estimated 1,586 tons of carbon emissions, the equivalent of 3.4 million vehicle miles not traveled.
We take great pride in embarking upon this major, solar-powered endeavor, continued Lowder. We thank both Johnson Controls and Tioga Energy for helping us to realize our lofty renewable energy goals and eagerly anticipate the first day of service from our newest teachers.
