Brigham Young University–Hawaii is making efforts toward lowering its environmental impact and reducing its dependence on the grid by investing in a photovoltaic production and storage system. The project will include a canopy PV system that will span across the Main Parking Lot as well as multiple rooftop systems.
"This project will make a visible statement to our students and the community of our commitment to a healthy environment and a sustainable future," said Vice President of Operations Cory D. Higgins. "The project has the potential to save the University over $20 million in utility costs over the life of the system."
The estimated annual production of the project will be 6.37-megawatt hours. The solar electricity generated and stored will supply an estimated 39% of the energy needs used by the University each year. Solar carports throughout campus will provide additional shade and weather protection.
BYU–Hawaii is working with REC Solar and Duke Energy Renewables to finance the project via a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA).
Full and partial parking lot closures should be expected during various phases of construction.
Construction is expected to start this summer and be operational by mid next year. Updates and further information will be posted on orangecone.byuh.edu.