Stafford County Public Schools in Virginia has advanced its sustainability efforts by partnering with Madison Energy Infrastructure (MEI) to install a 1.8-megawatt solar rooftop at North Stafford High School, the largest school solar array in the state. The two organizations held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially unveil the project.
Solar Project Will Save School $2.8m Electricity Costs
This 1.8-megawatt project, featuring 3,300 solar panels is expected to save the school system approximately $2.8 million in electricity costs over the next 25 years. Its size and efficiency in on-site power generation contribute significantly to these savings.
Beyond delivering financial benefits, this solar array will generate approximately 54 million kilowatt hours of renewable energy and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 41,583 tons. This project aligns with the global effort to combat climate change by decreasing reliance on conventional energy sources.
"It's an honour to partner with Stafford County Public Schools on this monumental project, with implications for school systems across Virginia as they look toward the future of clean energy. We are grateful for systems like Stafford Schools that are prioritizing clean energy and as a result, savings to their school system and ongoing education for their students. This project at North Stafford High School will pave the way for a greener outlook while serving as an inspirational model for other school districts across the state and nation." said Rich Allevi, Vice President of Energy Solutions with MEI.
Installation of the solar panels began in February, with teams working diligently to complete the project. The school marked the achievement with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating the official start of North Stafford High School's solar-powered future.
Project Creates Learning Opportunity for Students
In addition to its environmental and financial advantages, this solar initiative offers North Stafford High School students valuable educational opportunities. Through MEI’s Solar Empowered Schools curriculum, students will access real-time data from the solar panels incorporating it into their energy and science lessons.
This initiative seeks to teach students about solar power mechanics and enhance their understanding of renewable energy. According to the press release, students are already gaining hands-on experience with renewable energy through interactive solar learning modules and VR tours of the rooftop solar array.
"This rooftop solar array represents a significant milestone for our school division. We are proud to be a part of this energy and cost savings project, while also providing our students with real-world educational opportunities to engage in this field at North Stafford High School." said Maureen Siegmund, Stafford School Board Chair.
Partnerships’ Commitment to Sustainable Solutions
Madison Energy Infrastructure is a leading clean energy partner committed to delivering sustainable solutions with certainty, reliability and trust. With a portfolio of over half a gigawatt of clean energy infrastructure assets across more than 25 states, the company is supported by globally recognized investors and capital partners.
Offering services that span project development, engineering, construction, financing and long-term asset management, Madison Energy Infrastructure stands out for its commitment to tackling complex challenges and simplifying the transition to clean energy. With a strong track record of executing hundreds of successful projects, the company remains focused on exceeding expectations and delivering impactful results for its partners and clients.
Stafford County Public Schools (Stafford Schools) serves a diverse and dynamic population of 32,000 students in 33 schools within a county spanning 280 square miles. Stafford County has an estimated total resident population of 167,421. The district is recognized as high-performing, with all of its schools fully accredited.