California Institute of Technology adds 800 kW of solar across campus buildings

Standard Solar will own and operate a portfolio of solar systems installed on rooftops at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). The project was developed by EMCOR Services Mesa Energy.

Credit: Standard Solar

Eight more of Caltech’s campus building rooftops now host a combined 800 kW of solar energy. The buildings include Bechtel Residence, Bridge, Downs Luritsen, Hameetman, Keith Spalding, Parsons Gates, South Mud and Synchrotron.

“This project represents the culmination of a decade-long vision to build out rooftop solar across the Caltech campus,” said Maximilian Christman, Caltech sustainability manager. “Our campus in Pasadena now hosts 2 MW of onsite solar capacity, furthering our efforts towards carbon reduction and eventually carbon neutrality.”

The system will generate approximately 1,328 MWh in the first year of operation.

“What better way to strengthen our asset portfolio in California than through providing the funds needed to help one of its leading educational institutions reduce its dependence on nonrenewable energy sources,” said Shaun Laughlin, Head of U.S. strategic development, Standard Solar. “Caltech is setting a standard to which other centers of learning and organizations should emulate.”

Construction on all eight projects is complete — seven are operating, with one waiting for final permission to operate from the utility.

“EMCOR Services Mesa Energy was happy to help support Caltech’s sustainability goals by partnering with Standard Solar to design, engineer and construct this innovative solar project,” said Robert Lake, president, EMCOR Services Mesa Energy. “Our relationship with Caltech has spanned over 10 years, contributing to numerous energy-saving programs, with this project reflecting the most recent, significant energy initiative on the campus. We applaud Caltech’s vision in working to achieve a cleaner environment for all.”

News item from Standard Solar

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Original Source: https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2021/10/caltech-adds-solar-across-campus-buildings/