Oct 28 2010
Chevron Energy Solutions, a division of Chevron, has completed the 408 kW solar project for the Santa Monica College. The dedication ceremony of the solar project is proposed to be held on 29th of October. The solar project will allow the college to save over $14 million during the lifetime of the project.
Chevron Energy Solutions has designed and organized the installation of 408 kW solar system utilizing solar panels. The solar panels installed over the two parking buildings will generate adequate power to meet the energy requirements of the two garages and supplement the power requirement of Santa Monica College’s Business Education Building. Chevron will continue to maintain the solar system, thus assuring continuous power production performance. Chevron also has completed the energy efficiency implementations of the college such as arranging lighting retrofit all over the campus, inclusion of variable speed drives, new heating system for the hot water boilers, improvement of emergency circuits and fire alarm system. The installation of the solar system will help the college to reduce its CO2 discharges by more than 1,500 metric tons which can be equated to maintaining 13 acres of forest area green every year. The project costing over $3.6 million will produce around 50,600 kWh of electric power every month and will save the college around $8,100 every month. The investment for the project is paid entirely from the savings accrued from utility bills.
Dr. Chui L. Tsang, Santa Monica College’s President explained the commitment of the college in providing good education and environmental responsiveness. He added that the partnership with Chevron Energy Solutions enabled the college to lessen the energy produced from fossil fuels and reduce the carbon footprint of the college.