Catholic University of America having 7.4-MW Community Solar array planted on D.C. Campus
Standard Solar will build a 7.4 MW community solar array on The Catholic University of America’s campus in northeast D.C.
The solar array will be installed at the west campus of the University that is mainly used for campus operations, like tree nursery and staging areas for infrastructure projects. Standard Solar will own, operate and maintain the system.
The project will generate approximately 10,000 MWh of solar energy annually, making a considerable contribution to D.C.'s 100% renewable energy goal by 2032 and carbon neutrality goal by 2050.
“Catholic University is showing tremendous leadership with this innovative solar project to bring clean energy to the region,” Standard Solar’s Director of Business Development John Finnerty said. “The project goes beyond expanding the University’s sustainability initiatives and environmental stewardship to directly creating benefits for the Washington, D.C. community and generations of students.”
It will be the largest urban community solar array in the Washington metropolitan region, according to Standard Solar. The project will provide residents, non-profit organizations and businesses access to locally generated, renewable energy through the D.C. community solar program.
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The project may also provide educational opportunities to students who will be able to learn about sustainability and environmental stewardship via field trips, STEM projects and web-based energy production monitoring tools.
The project is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 7.1 metric tons annually. Construction is expected to start this year.
The campus already has 2,700 solar panels, four LEED-certified buildings, EV charging stations, solar carports, and a central hot and chilled water generation and campus distribution system.
Since 2016, carbon emissions on campus have declined by 28%, and every kilowatt of electricity is paid for with renewable energy credits, according to the release. The university offers more than 150 courses related to sustainability, internships in sustainability, and is sponsoring a conference in April, Climate Change and the Future of Work.