Dec 18 2009
The activation of 835-kW DC solar photovoltaic power system at Alamosa High School was celebrated by Mayor Kathy Rogers, School Superintendent Robert Alejo and Senator Gail Schwartz of Colorado. A part power requirement for the school district will be provided by this solar system during the next 20 years.
The solar system was built and financed without an upfront capital cost by North America’s leading provider of solar energy service, SunEdison, a subsidiary unit of MEMC Electronic Materials. For the next twenty years, more than 27 million kilowatt hours of electricity will be produced by the solar power array, which will help in supplying power for more than 2,600 homes for a year.
Senator Gail Schwartz remarked that the money saved from electricity bills will be spent for the school. Schwartz also acknowledged the environmental responsibilities undertaken by companies like SunEdison in order to develop Colorado’s solar industry.
Robert Alejo, Superintendent of Alamosa School, remarked that the school district is proud to be the first in using renewable energy. This project according to Alejo will enable Alamosa High School to be the one of the largest public schools in Colorado to make use of solar energy. Rick Gilliam, VP of Government Affairs for SunEdison, remarked that the company is proud to support the community of Alamosa by considering it to be a living laboratory and a model for solar power.
Kathy Rogers, Mayor of Alamosa, remarked that the communities’ progressive vision has been highlighted through the partnership between Alamosa Schools and SunEdison. This partnership according to Rogers will provide cost saving measures and the students of Alamosa high School will be provided with appropriate learning opportunities.