Oakland Unified School District is planning to significantly reduce their electricity costs by nearly half. For that’s with the installation of a SunPower solar energy system at 16 schools. This system is also set to reduce the district’s annual electricity costs by approximately $1.7 million. All for the next two decades.
SunPower Solar System
The installation of the SunPower solar energy system at the Oakland Unified School District will provide a number of benefits to the district. The solar energy system is able to generate up to 11.3 megawatts of clean electricity, making it the largest solar energy system installed on a school district in the United States. In addition to this, the system is expected to help reduce the district’s greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 8,000 metric tons per year.
Financial Benefits
The installation of the SunPower solar energy system is expected to help the Oakland Unified School District save up to $1.7 million on energy costs over the next two decades. This is estimated to be equivalent to a 44% reduction in their current electricity costs. In addition, the district will also benefit from a number of tax credits and incentives, which are expected to help offset up to 75% of the cost of the solar energy system.
Environmental Impact
The installation of the SunPower solar energy system at the Oakland Unified School District is also expected to have a positive impact on the environment. The solar energy system is set to reduce the district’s greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 8,000 metric tons per year. This is equivalent to taking 1,700 cars off the road.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Oakland Unified School District is making a smart move. Especially with the installation of the SunPower solar energy system at 16 schools. The system is also set to reduce the district’s electricity costs by nearly half. All the while also helping to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
So this is an excellent example of how renewable energy can help. I mean provide both financial and environmental benefits.
SOURCE: SunPower Corp.