Cal State Campus Solar Powered
By Ronald Roach
NORTHRIDGE, Calif.
In what is believed to be the largest solar energy project at an American university, California State University-Northridge has completed the installation of 3,000 photovoltaic panels on the campus, which is a move that is expected to save the school about $50,000 a year in electricity costs.
The solar panels can generate 75 watts each, allowing a total peak energy generating capacity of 225 kilowatts. They are installed as canopies that are also providing shade in the school’s parking lots. The power will be fed directly into the electricity grid serving the 353-acre campus, which is located in Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley.
The solar powered system is reducing carbon emissions by an amount equal to that emitted by 36 average passenger cars driving 20,000 miles per year, according to school officials.
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