Furman University in South Carolina is installing solar panels atop their Physical Activities Center.
According to reports, The South Carolina Energy Office recently awarded Furman a $340,000 grant to install 304 photovoltaic solar panels.
The building houses the Furman Fitness Center, indoor pool, Health Sciences Department, Military Science (ROTC) and Human Resources offices.
Solar Photovoltaics (PV) is believed to be the world’s fastest growing energy technology. It uses solar cells to convert energy from the sun into electricity. This installation will have a peak production output of 92 kilowatts and is expected to save the university $9,300 per year based on today’s electric rates.
Furman is integrating sustainability into all aspects of campus life and is trying to reduce its carbon footprint. Sustainability focuses on the dynamic relationships of social, economic and environmental systems with an eye toward preserving the resources of the current generation for future ones.
The new PAC solar panels are expected to demonstrate that solar technology is a viable energy source in both academic settings and commercial real estate.
The installation will take place this fall and will be the latest in a number of projects designed to cut energy costs at the university.
Furman currently has PV solar panels in use at Cliffs Cottage, home of the Shi Center for Sustainability. Also, last fall Furman received a $2.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy for a new environmentally friendly and energy efficient geothermal heating and cooling system for the North Village student housing complex.
According to reports, The South Carolina Energy Office recently awarded Furman a $340,000 grant to install 304 photovoltaic solar panels.
The building houses the Furman Fitness Center, indoor pool, Health Sciences Department, Military Science (ROTC) and Human Resources offices.
Solar Photovoltaics (PV) is believed to be the world’s fastest growing energy technology. It uses solar cells to convert energy from the sun into electricity. This installation will have a peak production output of 92 kilowatts and is expected to save the university $9,300 per year based on today’s electric rates.
Furman is integrating sustainability into all aspects of campus life and is trying to reduce its carbon footprint. Sustainability focuses on the dynamic relationships of social, economic and environmental systems with an eye toward preserving the resources of the current generation for future ones.
The new PAC solar panels are expected to demonstrate that solar technology is a viable energy source in both academic settings and commercial real estate.
The installation will take place this fall and will be the latest in a number of projects designed to cut energy costs at the university.
Furman currently has PV solar panels in use at Cliffs Cottage, home of the Shi Center for Sustainability. Also, last fall Furman received a $2.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy for a new environmentally friendly and energy efficient geothermal heating and cooling system for the North Village student housing complex.
Sunpower Solar
