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7.5-MW community solar project completed at Washington, D.C., university - Solar Power World

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7.5-MW community solar project completed at Washington, D.C., university

A 7.5-MW solar project was recently completed for The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. The West Campus Solar Array was developed by Standard Solar.

Situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., the West Campus Solar Array will be fully operational this summer. Plans had been in the works to turn part of the little-used 40-acre parcel of land into a parking lot, but instead, it will now host a field of 42 rows of solar panels that provide 10,000 MWh hours of power to the university and the community.

“This West Campus solar farm project is not just a renewable energy venture; it’s a testament to The Catholic University of America’s dedication to creating a sustainable future for our nation and world,” said President Peter Kilpatrick, Catholic University. “As we illuminate our campus with clean energy, we also enlighten minds through education and invite the community to join us on this transformative journey toward a greener and more sustainable world.”

The West Campus Solar Array is the region’s largest urban ground-mount solar array, and is sited as a community solar project. The array will provide clean energy savings to over 1,200 subscribers within the community, benefiting District residents.

“Undertaking a project of this magnitude in an urban setting presents its challenges, but the potential rewards for the region are immense,” said Scott Wiater, President & CEO, Standard Solar. “The West Campus Solar Array will power the university sustainably and benefit the local community. It’s a true win-win scenario for all involved.”

News item from Standard Solar

Related Knowledge Center: ENERGY BASICS: solar

State of Play

Declining costs and government encouragement have resulted in a rapid increase in solar energy production in the United States over the past 10 years, although solar’s share remains small: 1.6 percent of all electricity generation in 2018. That rapid growth is projected to continue.

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