Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine 315.2 kWdc Solar PV Array, ground, fixed-tilt mounting
The Podiatric Medicine ground mounted fixed array is part of a larger energy conservation project with The Brewer-Garrett Company completed in 2021. The solar developer/installer was Paradise Energy Solutions, LLC. The 315.2 kWdc Solar PV Array ground fixed-tilt mounting system consists of 788 solar panels and extends electrical connection to campus. The 315.2 kWdc Solar PV array serves nearly 30 percent of campus electricity. It is enough energy to power 42 homes or 52 cars and eliminate 273 tons of COâ‚‚ per year. The 25-year Power Purchase Agreement requires no upfront capital expense to the college, and all electricity produced is purchased at a negotiated rate with The Brewer-Garrett Company, Middleburg Heights, Ohio. The PV system will produce a minimum 25-year electric cost savings of about $16,500 the first year, and over $550,000 after 25 years. The perimeter of the array is made up of native pollinators and other plants specifically selected for the area to increase numbers of honeybees and various other beneficial insects. To follow-up on its progress, a solar energy dashboard is expected to be available on the CPM homepage allowing real-time data use for educational purposes and community interest.