The combined 1-MW solar job on the four schools, initially spearheaded by 2 local high school pupils, was funded by Standard Solar. It is expected to create an average of 30% of the energy utilized by the schools.
Secure Futures created the plans and also provided the county with program about solar energy that matches up with the state’s Standards of Learning. Standard Solar funded the project, including related educational opportunities for Secure Futures, and is responsible for long-term system operation and maintenance, further minimizing the school district’s costs.
“Standard Solar is proud to provide funding for school districts like ACPS, counties, and colleges and universities that have started to use renewables but will need to do so without utilizing capital funds,” said John Finnerty, director of business development in Standard Solar. “We also commend Virginia Governor Northam’s current executive order directing a pathway to 100% carbon free power and positioning the commonwealth for continued economic and community development.”
ACPS will save on their electricity costs during the next 20 years using solar power, and the job did not require any upfront prices from the county. ACPS now has 10,500 students enrolled in 18 schools.
“Standard Solar congratulates ACPS, Dominion Energy and Secure Futures together with achieving the last system approvals for the onsite solar electricity generation, improving the school facilities and enhancing learning opportunities for decades ahead,” Finnerty said.
“With the largest solar power system at any given school division in Virginia, Augusta County Schools is demonstrating leadership that is financial, environmental and educational,” said Anthony Smith, CEO of Secure Futures. “Using their own solar energy, the schools will save nearly $500,000 within the next two decades, while making a positive contribution to Virginia’s clean energy mix and supplying students hands-on learning opportunities in a 21st-century industry.”
