The Sweetwater Union High School District in Chula Vista announced installation of solar power systems at 21 schools that will offset 60 percent of normal electricity demand.
San Jose-based SunPower Corp. installed solar shade structures in school parking lots, taking advantage of underutilized space and providing needed shade.
One ground-mounted system was installed at Mar Vista Middle School in San Diego, and a rooftop system was installed at Hilltop High School in Chula Vista.
“With proven, reliable SunPower technology, we are generating savings that the Sweetwater Union High School District can use to support our academic and enrichment programs,” said Dr. Tim Glover, interim superintendent of SUHSD. “We’re also supporting the development of more solar power installations in our region. It is the right thing to do for our students and our community.”
The district’s solar systems are financed through power purchase agreements with SunPower. Under terms of the agreements, financiers own the systems that SunPower designs, builds, operates and maintains.
The district is buying the electricity at rates that are competitive with retail electricity, minimizing the effect of rising electricity costs with no capital investment. The district owns the renewable energy credits associated with the systems.