Penn State breaks ground on solar panel project

Penn State University recently held the groundbreaking for a 70-megawatt, utility-scale solar energy project.

The project is a partnership between Penn State and Lightsource BP.

Lightsource BP will finance, build, own, and operate more than 150,000 solar panels on three solar farms in Franklin County, and the university will purchase all of the electricity generated. The partners are under a 25-year contract.

The 70-megawatt project is forecasted to provide 25 percent of the university’s electricity, lower its greenhouse gas emissions by 57,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, and save the $14 million over the life of the contract.

“This project is truly a win for Penn State, a win for Pennsylvania, and a win for the environment,” Rob Cooper, senior director of energy and engineering in Penn State’s Office of Physical Plant, said. “This large-scale solar project located in PA provides many benefits for Penn State, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the local community. It provides immediate utility cost savings and long-term budget certainty and will lower Penn State’s greenhouse gas emissions. It also provides educational value, research potential, and student internships and jobs.”

Penn State has set the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 35 percent by 2020 and diversifying its energy portfolio.