Western U of Health Sciences Goes Solar To Cut Costs

  • By Kevin Hudson
  • 09/19/13

Western University of Health Sciences (WUHS) has signed a partnership contract to have roof-mounted solar panels installed and operated on its Pomona, CA, campus.

The 672-kilowatt solar array will comprise 2,688 panels across the roofs of three campus buildings, according to a release, along with a carport system with solar panels located at one of the campus parking areas.

The school chose to partner with Washington Gas and Energy Systems for the project, which is expected to be complete and operational by the end of October. The company will own and operate the system under a 20-year power purchase agreement. Green Energy Group developed the project and Conergy engineered it and will manage procurement and construction.

The WUHS campus will receive approximately 1,100 megawatt hours of energy each year from the installation, with the energy offset predicted to "reduce greenhouse gas emissions equal to recycling more than 293 tons of waste, instead of sending it to a landfill, or taking approximately 163 passenger cars off the road for one year," according to a news release.

"Western U welcomes this opportunity to help the environment, reduce the impact of our operations, and lower our electrical costs," said Thomas G. Fox, senior vice president at Western University of Health Sciences, in a release. "Solar panels offer a simple solution, one that makes a strong statement about the importance of a greener planet for a healthier life."

About the Author

Kevin Hudson is a freelance journalist based in Portland, Oregon. He can be reached at [email protected].

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