BCPS enters solar agreement, will install systems at Montvale, Goodview Elementaries
According to the district, they have entered a partnership with Secure Solar Futures in Staunton. Soon, they will begin the process of installing a 1.4 megawatts ground mount solar array system at two of its schools, Montvale Elementary (505 kilowatts) and Goodview Elementary (865 kilowatts).(Photo: WLOS Staff)
BEDFORD COUNTY, Va. (WSET) — Bedford County Public Schools now has the plan to save on electric bills for the foreseeable future.
According to the district, they have entered a partnership with Secure Solar Futures in Staunton.
Soon, they will begin the process of installing a 1.4 megawatts ground mount solar array system at two of its schools, Montvale Elementary (505 kilowatts) and Goodview Elementary (865 kilowatts).
SEE ALSO: Del. Ronnie Campbell dead from cancer at 68; Virginia lawmakers react
The project will include the installation of an advanced technology known as bifacial panels, meaning each panel will produce electricity on both sides.
The agreement will be financed by a 25-year power purchase agreement that requires no upfront investment by the school division.
According to BCPS Superintendent, Dr. Marc Bergin, “In addition to the economic benefits of this project, we are excited about the social and environmental impacts.”
BCPS will also have access to the Secure Solar Future’s hands-on classroom curriculum, Throwing Solar Shade. In addition, high school students will have the opportunity to take part in the company’s workforce development program to train as apprentice solar power installers.
SEE ALSO: Police investigating after suspicious package found inside of Bedford Walmart
Through the power purchase agreement, the district said it is projected to save on the electricity bills at each school, with a net savings of $4.7 million over the 35-year life of the project.
Ryan McAllister, CEO of Secure Solar Futures, commented, “This robust clean energy system will magnify the schools’ money savings and environmental impact while offering teachers and students a significant learning resource.”
As to the environmental benefits, the district says the solar power produced at the two campuses will offset 849 tons of carbon emissions each year, which is enough clean energy to power the equivalent of 107 average-sized U.S. homes.
