By Michael Taromina, The Bucknellian
On October 6, 2022, Bucknell University formally dedicated its new 1.76 MW solar energy facility in Union County, Pennsylvania. The article first appeared in The Bucknellian on October 7, 2022
Bucknell University is known for many things—stellar academics, superb facilities and superior athletics, but one aspect of the college that is increasing in size and scope is the campus’ focus on green and renewable Energy.
On October 6 Bucknell University hosted a public dedication of the 1.76 peak megawatt solar array on the project site between Bucknell Golf Club and Art Barn Complex off of Smoketown Road, along with their partner Encore Renewable Energy of Burlington, Vt.
The event celebrated the operation of the array, which will supply up to seven percent of the University’s electricity and will move Bucknell a step closer to achieving climate neutrality goals, such as being carbon neutral by 2030.
“We expect the project to be complete and producing power by the end of October. It is 99% complete, but we are waiting for one piece of electrical equipment to be delivered due to supply chain issues. It took several years of design, permitting, and construction to get to this point.”
James Knight, Energy and Utilities Specialist
Dedication speakers will include Bucknell President John Bravman; Chad Farrell ’92, founder and CEO of Encore Renewable Energy; Bucknell student Colton Jiorle ’25, Bucknell project manager and an East Buffalo Township supervisor; and a representative from Greenbacker Capital Management, which has provided funding for the project. They will also participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“The project will help marginally reduce the University’s carbon footprint and supply power at a lower cost than purchasing from the grid.”
James Knight, Energy and Utilities Specialist
Encore Renewable Energy is a community-scale renewable energy project developer. Founded in 2007 as Encore Redevelopment, their team specializes in the design and construction of solar and energy storage projects on open land.
In addition to achieving Bucknell sustainability goals, the project will enhance opportunities for renewable-energy focused teaching and research across multiple disciplines.
It will additionally generate property tax revenues to East Buffalo Township, provide Bucknell with price certainty on energy rates for the next several decades and strengthen the region’s commitment to the production and use of renewable energy.
“Completing this solar array has been a long process, requiring the efforts of numerous people. The clean, renewable energy it contributes to the grid will benefit both the University and the local community. It also provides a great opportunity for student education and research in this rapidly expanding field.”
JAMES KNIGHT, ENERGY AND UTILITIES SPECIALIST
The location for the array provides prime sun exposure and is not in close proximity to residential properties. The project consists of south-facing panels tilted at 25 to 30 degrees, with a maximum height of nine feet.
The seven acre array of panels are surrounded with an agricultural fence to ensure safety. The site has also been replanted with pollinator friendly vegetation between the panels to attract bees, butterflies and other species critical to future food security.
According to Knight, several classes have already toured the site to learn more about renewable energy development. He expects there will be many opportunities for teaching and research for our students, but nonetheless, it is already making an impact on the undergraduates just through its concoction.
“As a Bucknell University graduate, I am proud to see my alma mater advancing this important project. This project is an example of how Bucknell is leading the way among academic institutions in both decarbonization as well as providing avenues for hands-on learning for students poised to enter the clean energy workforce.”
Chad Farrell ’92, founder and CEO of Encore Renewable Energy
[To learn more about the University’s sustainability initiatives, visit Bucknell University’s Sustainability webpage.]
The University’s first solar array was installed in 2006 and serves as a power source for the Bucknell Center for Sustainability & the Environment. Several more solar arrays have since been added, including a class tribute from the Class of 2014. A 900-watt wind turbine was installed in 2013.
Bucknell University – Energy, Water & Transportation
Through continuous, ongoing efficiency upgrades including LED lighting, low-flow water fixtures, green roofs and rain garden projects and constructing new buildings to meet or exceed Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards, we’re also striving to reduce our energy and water use, even as our campus grows. It’s all part of our commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.
Through continuous, ongoing efficiency upgrades including LED lighting, low-flow water fixtures, green roofs and rain garden projects and constructing new buildings to meet or exceed Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards, we’re also striving to reduce our energy and water use, even as our campus grows. It’s all part of our commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.
(Reprinted from The Bucknellian.)
Related Articles:
— Penn State Oct. 24 EarthTalks Highlights Agricultural Integration And Solar Facilities – Agrivoltaics In Context [PaEN]
— Net-Zero Manufacturing Initiative, Venango County Trails Project Among Appalachian Regional Commission Grants To Support Coal-Impacted Communities In PA [PaEN]
[Posted: October 20, 2022] PA Environment Digest | Source
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