INTELLIGENT BRANDS // Green Technology

Project demonstrates how educational institutions can lead in the transition to clean energy and achieve carbon neutrality goals .

The installation marks a significant milestone in the university ’ s efforts to achieve net carbon neutrality by 2040 .

Acquired by Standard Solar after being initially developed by EDF Renewables , the project was constructed and completed in collaboration with EDF Renewables as the EPC provider . Standard Solar is the project ’ s long-term owner and operator .

The system is estimated to generate approximately 5,108 } megawatt-hours ( MWh ) of clean energy each year , supplying more than 100 % of the Goodman Campus ’ s electrical power needs and offsetting 8 % of the university ’ s total grid electricity consumption . Goodman Campus includes most of the university ’ s athletic and event facilities and is used by students , staff , faculty and the community .

“ As someone who grew up in the area , it ’ s gratifying to support Lehigh in its mission to become a sustainability model in higher education ,” said Eric Partyka , Director of Business Development , Standard Solar . “ This solar installation not only delivers clean energy to the campus but also plays a critical role in advancing the university ’ s ambitious carbon neutrality goals . The project showcases the power of collaboration in driving real progress toward a more sustainable future .”

Joseph J . Helble , Lehigh ’ s President , said : “ This solar installation is a critical step in our Pathway to Zero as outlined in our Climate Action Strategy .

“ By investing in on-site renewable energy , we are not only reducing emissions but also providing valuable learning opportunities for our students ."

The single-axis tracker array will also offer hands-on research and learning opportunities for Lehigh students , underscoring the institution ’ s commitment to fostering sustainability leaders .

“ This project is about more than energy production – it ’ s about educating the next generation of leaders who will create solutions for a sustainable future ,” said Audrey McSain , Lehigh University ’ s Sustainability Director .

“ By integrating this project into our campus operations and curriculum , we are preparing our students to be future makers who will address the climate challenges we face today and in the future .”

Myles Burnsed , Vice President , Strategic Development , Distribution- Scale Power , EDF Renewables , said : “ Our expertise in designing , developing and constructing customized energy solutions for corporations and institutions has been a cornerstone of our service to customers for over a decade . This collective expertise reinforces our dedication to creating tailored solutions that meet the evolving and unique needs of our partners .”

Lehigh is the sole off-taker of the energy produced through a long-term Power Purchase Agreement ( PPA ) with Standard Solar . The installation also features an aesthetically designed landscape surrounding the array , integrating it into the broader campus environment and preserving the area ’ s natural beauty .

This project adds to Standard Solar ’ s growing portfolio of solar projects in Pennsylvania and underscores the company ’ s commitment to delivering renewable energy solutions for educational institutions . p

www . intelligentcio . com INTELLIGENTCIO NORTH AMERICA 69