San Diego State U Adds 355 kW Solar Installation
Kyocera and Independent Energy Solutions have completed a 355.9-kilowatt solar photovoltaic solar installation at San Diego State University.
The installation, funded by the Associated Students of San Diego State University (AS) through a student-approved fee referendum designed to direct funds to sustainability initiatives, features 1,680 Kyocera KD240 solar modules and will produce an estimated 538,267 kilowatt hours per year. The cost of the system was mitigated in part by the California Solar Initiative Performance Based Incentive program, which provides incentives based on how much electricity an installation provides over a five-year period.
The system, mounted on a carport structure atop a campus parking building, is part of a plan to build a LEED Platinum-certified student union building. The installation is also part of larger sustainability efforts that include membership in the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education and the creation in 2009 of sustainability and environmental studies major.
"Creating a sustainable campus and community is a priority for SDSU faculty, students and staff," stated Morgan Chan, Associated Students' sustainability commissioner. "Students at SDSU are each making an investment in their own future, but recognize the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy benefiting future Aztec generations."
AS is an student directed independent nonprofit corporation that advocates for the interests of SDSU's 35,000 students and creates, promotes, and funds cultural and recreational programs and facilities on and around campus. More information about AS sustainability initiatives is available at as.sdsu.edu/greenlove/.
About the Author
Joshua Bolkan is contributing editor for Campus Technology, THE Journal and STEAM Universe. He can be reached at [email protected].