Over the Top

Tap into the Energy Flooding Your Rooftop

Submitted by Deveny Cay Wells, Editor, Coryell Roofing & Construction

In the summer of 2022, 10 Wise County Virginia high school students helped install solar panels expected to save the school district $7.5 million in 35 years. This educational opportunity rewarded students with credits toward becoming solar and electrical engineers as well as a $17 an hour stipend.

In October of this year, the Chula Vista Elementary School District in California "flipped the switch to solar installed across 46 schools." The 18,000 solar panels created a microgrid projected to save the district more than $70 million in the next 25 years, in part, by providing electricity from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. when electric rates are highest. An additional benefit is the backup energy provided for the district’s IT Department, additional servers, and the child nutrition freezer.

As of the fall of 2020, Arizona's Tucson Unified School District was home to the largest K-12 solar project among K-12 schools. Solar energy powers 80 schools and is expected to provide cost savings of up to $43 million over a 20-year period. The system is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 31,000 metric tons each year.

Schools across our nation are tapping into the sustainable energy pouring onto their rooftops. They are taking advantage of policy changes at federal and state levels and at utility entities that make solar energy an affordable means of:

• saving on energy costs and reallocating those funds for other needs

• providing students hands-on educational experiences and job opportunities

• securing a backup energy source

• contributing to community development and job creation

• reducing carbon emissions

The idea of researching, planning, financing, and installing solar energy can seem daunting. That is why we, at Coryell Roofing and Coryell Energy Solutions, stand ready to help. When your school is ready, give us a call!