Madison Energy Infrastructure (MEI) and Stafford County Public Schools have inaugurated a 1.8 MW rooftop solar array project at North Stafford High School, Virginia.
“The installation of this rooftop solar array not only reduces our environmental footprint, but also serves as a powerful educational tool for our students," said Chris R. Fulmer, Acting Superintendent of Stafford County Public Schools. "Through this project, students are learning the real-world benefits of renewable energy and how it contributes to a sustainable future."
Installation of the project began in February and was completed this month.
The project, which consists of 3,300 solar panels, will save the school system an estimated $2.8 million in electric bills over the next 25 years due to the size and efficiency of the on-site generation from the solar rooftop array. The rooftop will also generate 54 million kWh of clean energy and offset 41,583 tons of CO2.
The project will also provide students with continuous learning opportunities. Students will engage with MEI's Solar Empowered Schools curriculum, which integrates real-time data from the solar panels into energy and science lessons, providing invaluable insights into renewable energy and environmental stewardship. Students have started participating in MEI's interactive learning opportunities, including solar-empowered school modules and VR educational tours of the rooftop.
"This project exemplifies how we can inspire environmental stewardship in our students and the broader community," said Dr. Pamela Yeung, who serves on the Stafford County Board of Supervisors, in a statement. "Together, we are shaping a more sustainable, environmentally conscious future for Stafford County."
North Stafford is one of five high schools in the Stafford County public school system. The district is dealing with vast expansion as Stafford County is one of the nation’s fastest growing counties in America, according to reports.
