RGS Energy, the commercial and utility division of Real Goods Solar, announced that they will install 1.1 mw of solar power at Church Farm School in Exton, Pennsylvania, helping them save hundreds of thousands of dollars each year in electric costs.

The $3.2 million operation was paid in part by a $1.19 million grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Not only does this operation seek to lower the costs of energy at the school, but it also helps lower the school’s greenhouse emissions. The remainder of the cost is funded through a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Smart Energy Capital (SEC).

“Church Farm School’s solar installation sets a standard for other schools and businesses to follow,” says RGS Energy General Manager Tim Seamans. “Solar energy is a truly cost effective way to reduce operating costs while reducing environmental impact.”

The head of the school sees more than one benefit to the installation.

“Our students have a real life laboratory to explore and learn more about their energy future,” said Head of School, The Reverend Edmund K. Sherrill. “That we reduce our energy costs along the way is an added bonus since it will redirect dollars spent on energy to our school’s mission that provides such a great education at little to no cost.”

The photovoltaic solar system, comprised of over 3,500 solar panels, is expected to produce nearly 1.5 million kWh of electricity per year. The clean power generated from the ground mount system, installed on five acres of school land, will supply approximately 75% of the school’s electrical needs and provide Church Farm students and faculty an on-site source of renewable energy and exposure to best practices in sustainability.

For more information, visit www.RealGoodsSolar.com

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