Solar panels to bring light to Sierra Lutheran

An alternative energy project is under construction at Sierra Lutheran High School in Sunridge, but it’s not a windmill.

Black Rock Solar began work installing 324 ground-mounted panels at the school in February. The company is also installing 193 rooftop panels at Silver State Charter School in Carson City.

“We are delighted to provide low-cost, high-quality solar energy to these schools,” said Black Rock Solar Executive Director Paddy McCully. “In doing so, we’re both helping reduce pollution and saving the schools thousands of dollars on their power bills.”

McCully estimated the panels would save the two schools more than $19,000 annually on their electric bills.

The arrays can produce enough energy to power 40 homes a year. Funding for the project came from NV Energy’s SolarGenerations rebates.

“Schools throughout Nevada have benefited from NV Energy’s SolarGenerations program, which is paid by electric customers through their monthly power bills,” said NV Energy Renewable Energy Programs Manager John Hargrove.

Nevada’s Legislature created the rebate program 11 years ago to encourage investment in renewable energy. Since then, Nevada schools have installed 249 photovoltaic solar projects that are generating more than 20 megawatts of electricity, and they have received approximately $90 million in rebates to offset project costs.

Black Rock Solar has installed solar panels capable of generating 787 kilowatts at 12 schools throughout the state.

Sierra Lutheran received authorization from the Douglas County commission to set up a windmill at the site.