The company said that the project is expected to provide more than $1.5m in budget relief to the district’s general fund in the first year and $7.6m over five years. It is anticipated that the project will reduce the district’s electric utility costs by 30% and deliver $36m in savings over the life of the project.
Chevron Energy will design, build, operate, maintain, measure and guarantee the solar energy system’s performance for the district. The project will lead to the hiring of more than 100 local union contractors.
The company added that the solar panels at six school sites will generate enough power to light more than 250,000 average-sized compact fluorescent light bulbs. The district will also reduce its purchase of utility power through this project, which is expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 3,100 metric tons per year.
Through professional development workshops, the district’s teachers will learn how they can use hands-on solar kits and activity guides in the classroom to teach students about solar energy.
Jim Davis, president of Chevron Energy, said: ”We are pleased to help East Side Union High School District celebrate its 60th anniversary by creating savings and learning opportunities through solar energy. This project is a prime example of how education institutions can use solar projects to provide budget relief and teach the next generation about clean technologies.”
