Augusta County Schools

A curriculum that evolves with the sun in Augusta

Having solar panels on campus has helped Augusta County’s schools integrate clean energy into their curricula. Students participated in the 10-week Throwing Solar Shade® program under the direction of Dr. Jeremy Hoffman, chief scientist at the Science Museum of Virginia. Students chose their topics and conducted their own research on the subject of the heat-island effect. Three ACPS students presented their findings at the Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon in December 2020.

Producing its own solar power on site will also help the school division save more than $12 million in energy over the next 20 years, with no upfront capital cost. Under a power purchase agreement, Secure Solar Futures installed the panels on the school campuses but will continue to own and operate the solar systems, selling all the power to the schools at a cost lower than utility power.

Augusta County Schools is a participant in our K-12 Solar E-Van Pool Pilot Program. By using smaller vehicles that can be driven by employees as part of their commute without need for a Commercial Drivers License, the schools will reduce the length of bus routes without having to wait to hire additional professional bus drivers.

And by using electric vehicles, Augusta County Schools will give their students a ride that’s quieter (promoting better student behavior) and cleaner (with healthier indoor air). Charged in part by the school’s own solar energy system, the new e-vans will be truly clean transportation.

LIVE ENERGY MONITORING

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The Challenge

Go green in a meaningful way and integrate clean energy into the curriculum.

The Result

3.7 MW of solar power installed at six campuses will save $12 million. Interactive STEM learning program energizes high school students.