Solar Initiatives
ASU is advancing an unparalleled effort to install at least 25MWdc of solar power across its four campuses by 2014. ASU reached 18.2 MWdc of solar-energy capacity in December 2012, providing over 33 million kilowatt hours (kWh) annually. This is enough clean, renewable energy to power over 5,000 Arizona homes for one year, and reduces ASU carbon footprint by 6.2 percent.
ASU's solar photovoltaic (PV) installations began in 2004 with a 34 kWdc project on top of the Tyler Street Parking Structure on its Tempe campus. This system was replaced with a new 477 kWdc system in November 2011.
Now with 66 installations currently active on its four ASU campuses and the ASU Research Park, ASU has the largest solar portfolio of any university in the U.S. Visit ASU's solar website at asusolar.asu.edu for current information on ASU's Solarization Initiative.
There are many reasons ASU is the perfect place for solar energy. Below are five top reasons why ASU has undertaken a massive program to power its campuses with renewable energy:
- ASU is a founding signatory of the American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment, which requires immediate steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Numerous solar PV systems across ASU campuses prominently display the university's commitment to renewable energy and carbon neutrality.
- Renewable energy systems provide points toward LEED certification and ASU requires all new buildings to be at least LEED silver certified.
- Arizona Public Service, one of ASU's energy service providers, predicts electricity rates will continue to rise over the next several years primarily due to volatility of fossil fuel prices.
- It's the right thing to do.
Read more:
ASU LightWorks
TUV Rheinland Photovoltaic Testing Laboratory