Shenandoah University’s investment in solar energy is paying off in a cycle of sustainability.
In 2019, Shenandoah teamed with Secure Futures of Staunton, Virginia, to install a total of 1,337 rooftop solar panels across three buildings: the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center; Alson H. Smith, Jr. Library; and Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre. All of the panels’ current and lifetime energy production can be found on Shenandoah’s sustainability site.
When the panels were installed, Virginia did not have a market for renewable energy credits for solar and other renewable energies, or RECs. Now, with recent legislation requiring power producers to increase renewable energy in their portfolios, such a market exists in the state.
As a result, Secure Futures presented Shenandoah with a $24,331 check for a partial value of Shenandoah’s RECs, on Dec. 15.
The money will be used to continue sustainability efforts at Shenandoah by partially funding the purchase of an e-truck (a Ford F-150 Lightning has been reserved) for staff use, said Shenandoah University Physical Plant Director Barry Schnoor.
Shenandoah University has long been dedicated to creating a sustainable environment on campus, and has been on The Princeton Review’s “Guide to Green Colleges” each year since 2013.
