Governor’s Energy Office Helps Colorado State University with Project to Install Solar Panels on Engineering Building

Colorado State University, in partnership with the Governor’s Energy Office, this week is installing photovoltaic cells on CSU’s Engineering Building overlooking the plaza on campus as a greenhouse gas reduction measure that can also serve as a demonstration to the university’s commitment to sustainability.

The Governor’s Energy Office provided $35,000 in matching funds for a PV project grant as part of the state’s 2009 Solar Rebate Program.

The 18.9-kilowatt solar array is expected to produce more than 25,000 kilowatt hours per year and will reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of the Engineering Building by 18.3 metric tons per year. The solar panels are being mounted on the roof of the Engineering Building and will tie into the building’s electrical system.

"The demonstration project will provide a valuable learning experience for students and will add to recent efficiency upgrades including new fluorescent lights, a closed loop- chilled water system, and a CO2 demand ventilation system," said Carol Dollard, energy engineer for CSU’s Department of Facilities Management.

The project demonstrates Colorado State’s continued commitment to sustainable and renewable energy and its leadership in creating the Governor’s New Energy Economy. The grant program is administered by the Colorado Solar Energy Industries Association, which is funded by the Governor’s Energy Office and includes 32 cities, utilities and non-profit partners.

The system was installed by Bella Energy. For more information about Bella, go to http://www.bellaenergy.com/.

For more information regarding the Governor’s Energy Office Solar Rebate Program, go to www.colorado.gov/energy.

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