Flip-the-switch ceremony for a solar power system, which is being set up at nine of the Wm. S Hart Union High School District (Hart School District)'s junior high and high schools, was hosted at La Mesa Junior High School.
The nine schools that will be producing green electricity include Sierra Vista Junior High School, Rio Norte Junior High School, Rancho Pico Junior High School, La Mesa Junior High School, Saugus High School, West Ranch High School, Valencia High School, Canyon High School and Golden Valley High School.
This turnkey solar project is being developed by PsomasFMG through public-private collaboration with the Hart School District for achieving a substantial reduction in conventional electricity consumption in the district. PsomasFMG organized for project funding with zero-upfront expenditures to the district. The 7-MW project installation is being managed by the company.
The solar system consists of 30,400 photovoltaic panels installed over carport structures and ground-mounted structures on specific locations. Construction of the project is nearing completion and all systems are slated to commence production in the 2012-2013 academic year.
The solar power system is designed to generate green electrical power for the Hart School District. Through these installations, the district is anticipated to save $18-20 million during the 20-year power purchase agreement term. Moreover, the district will significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions and will get over 80% of its electrical needs from the solar project. Southern California Edison will fulfill the remaining energy needs of the school district. Additionally, these installations will offer shade for parking 2,300 vehicles on the school sites.