“The solar array project exemplifies UC Merced’s founding vision to become an international model for sustainable development and environmental stewardship,” Mary Miller, vice chancellor for administration at UC Merced, said.
The system utilizes SunPower solar panels with the SunPower T20 Tracker system. The T20 Tracker follows the sun’s movement during the day, increasing sunlight capture by up to 30% over conventional fixed-tilt systems, while significantly reducing land use requirements.
“Colleges and universities in California are seizing the opportunity to help the state meet its growing energy demand and renewable energy goals,” SunPower’s Managing Director Bill Kelly said. “UC Merced understands the significant return on investment that SunPower systems deliver, and the added value of working with an experienced partner.”
According to conversion formulas provided by The Climate Registry, the system is expected to remove more than 45 million pounds of carbon dioxide over the next 30 years. That is equivalent to the emissions displaced from removing more than 3,600 cars from California’s roads. Under the terms of a long-term power purchase agreement, UC Merced will be entitled to the renewable energy credits and all environmental attributes associated with the system.
