Thousands of solar panels have been installed at 10 campuses in the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD).
The project began in July 2018 and was completed in December 2018. The District is projected to save up to $20 million over the next 20 years while also conserving natural resources. The panels were installed at no cost to the District under a power purchase agreement with PFMG Solar, LLC.
At San Gorgonio High School alone, more than 2,000 solar panels were installed atop new parking lot shelters, making it possible for the school to consume about 35 percent less power from the grid. The entire project will generate about seven million kilowatt hours per year.
Other District campuses that also have new solar panels include Cajon, Arroyo Valley, Indian Springs, Middle College, and Pacific High Schools; Curtis, Del Vallejo, and Chavez Middle Schools; and Barton Elementary School. Schools were selected based on their high electricity consumption and available space.
The installation of solar panels is part of the District’s longstanding commitment to clean energy. Other initiatives include recent energy-saving upgrades at various schools across the District, like the installation of new LED lighting and new air conditioning units. In addition, most SBCUSD schools have been recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as Energy Star campuses.
“This project will allow us to reduce energy costs and also reduce our carbon footprint,” said Superintendent Dr. Dale Marsden. “That’s a win-win for our District and our community.”