Dec 30 2010
The Chester County Intermediate Unit announced that it has recently completed the solar panel installation atop its Boot Road building in Downingtown. The panels cover 75% of the roof space and have the capacity to generate about 100 kWh.
The Intermediate Unit will save energy costs of $20,000 to $25,000 annually through installation of the panels. As part of a larger initiative, the IU saves $300,000 in energy costs through implementation of other energy conserving measures.
The solar panels were purchased with $250,000 of its own funds and a $500,000 Energy Harvest Grant. The school secured the grant through the state’s Department of Environmental Protection. Though at current electricity costs it would take about 10 years for realizing the investment, the payback period would shorten, provided if there is an increase in the electricity rates.
The solar panel installation is expected to increase awareness and installations among other schools. The school also plans to utilize the solar panels for educational purposes. A cross-section of the solar panel is to be housed in a kiosk and placed in the conference room where visitors would be able to view the insides of the panel.