The project is expected to save the district $20m through a 1.68MW solar and efficiency project spanning 15 elementary, middle, and high school sites.
By using the sun to generate much of its own power at each of the 15 sites, the district expects to cut its annual electrical utility usage in half and reduce its carbon emissions by more than 1,500 metric tons, equivalent to the carbon sequestered by 328 acres of pine forests.
Chevron will design and engineer the project, and will install, operate, maintain and guarantee the solar systems’ performance for 20 years.
The company will also implement energy efficiency improvements in the district’s lighting, irrigation, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, which are expected to provide better lighting quality and aesthetics, lower maintenance costs and improved indoor climate.
Chevron will also provide professional development for teachers, curriculum materials and hands-on experiments aligned with state standards to help create a living laboratory that promotes environmental awareness and energy consciousness.
