The installation work was carried out by solar energy equipment supplier Cape Fear Solar Systems. The solar system comprises 660 solar panels installed on three buildings within GLOW Academy.
The solar system is expected to produce around 410 MWh of clean energy each year, reducing GLOW Academy’s carbon emissions by more than 639,000 pounds annually. This is equivalent to planting 4,800 trees, removing 65 passenger vehicles from the road and powering 56.5 homes for a year. In the first year alone, the system is expected to save nearly $33,000 in electric bill costs and nearly $1.12 million over the 25-year warrantied life of the solar panels.
According to GLOW Academy, the project was made possible by the contribution of its supporters as well as funding from the Duke Energy Solar Rebate Program and the Inflation Reduction Act.
The school says it plans to add solar energy to its curriculum and utilize its solar panels to educate students.
“Not only will solar help us save money on our energy bills, but it will also provide a valuable learning opportunity for our students about the importance of sustainability and renewable energy,” said Todd Godbey, CEO of GLOW Academy.
GLOW is the only single-gender charter school in North Carolina, according to the release. It's announced focus is on girls from prednominately underserved communities where they could be the first in their families to attend college.
Read more from EnergyTech about Educational Campuses cutting their Carbon Footprints
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