Frank L. Weyenberg Library Goes Solar
MEQUON — Frank L. Weyenberg Library’s solar panel project has reached a significant milestone.
Arch Solar C&I has completed installing the 98.865 kW rooftop ballasted Photovoltaic System on the library’s flat roofs located on the west side of the building. This initiative is designed to optimize energy efficiency and reduce energy costs following the replacement of all fluorescent lighting with LED, replacing inefficient boilers with high-efficiency models, and reframing windows throughout the building.
“Installing a solar panel array is the natural next step for us,” Frank L. Weyenberg Library Board of Trustees President Tedd Lookatch said, noting that this one-time expenditure has a return on investment of just 7.1 years.
Over the next 20 years, it is estimated that the new solar panel system will have the impact of reducing 1,813 tons of CO2 offset, 4,122,282 miles driven by cars and 27,195 trees planted.
“In fact, the ROI will be even quicker because of a generous contribution from the Weyenberg Public Library Foundation. The project would not have been possible without their vision for the future and their financial support,” Lookatch added.
The library contracted with Arch Solar, a certified Women’s Business Enterprise operating solely in Wisconsin, to design, install and commission the solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The final step will be connecting the system to WE Energies.
“The environmental benefits of going solar will be far reaching and something the Library is thrilled to be doing,” Library Director Rachel Muchin Young said. “The energy cost-savings will enable us continue to provide excellent service to our community and to maintain this lovely facility.”
The system is projected to be fully operational later this summer. The panels are expected to function for 30 years with some routine maintenance.
For more information about the project, contact Muchin Young at rmuchinyoung@flwlib.org or 262-242-2590. Frank L. Weyenberg Library is located at 11345 N. Cedarburg Road, Mequon.