The Fremont Union School Disrict in Sunnyvale, California began installing solar panels at five locations, a project that totals $42 million. Like more and more solar projects, the panels lie atop shelter structures in parking lots, providing shade as well as electricity. The number of sites could eventually be 13.
Is it worth it? Probably not. In early negotiations, Renewable Ventures Fremont Power was to own the power generated and sell it to the school, taking a cut for themselves. It sounds like the school ended up owning the system, and claims it saves $1 million a year in energy costs. So will it take 42 years to make up for the original construction cost? The solar calculator claims it takes about 15 years to break even in this location. Who knows?
At least it teaches the students responsibility for the environment. The power won't go out when a powerline breaks. And of course, less carbon emissions. The project was funded by the state's 2008 Measure B.
[images © Architecture Revived]
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