Monday, August 15, 2011

Staunton Based Solar Firm Powers Up Washington and Lee



Posted: Aug 08, 2011 5:30 PM EDT
Updated: Aug 08, 2011 5:57 PM EDT

The Shenandoah Valley is already home to Virginia's largest solar power system. But it's about to get one that's even larger, and a Staunton company is behind both of those cutting-edge power projects.

Over 1,500 solar panels will crank out 450 kilowatts of electricity from the rooftops at Washington and Lee University. The project aims to show how energy stewardship can make financial sense.

With the stroke of a pen, Washington and Lee University committed to a massive solar energy project, one that is billed as a commitment to the future.

"For any student graduating from a liberal arts college, you have to consider that broader context. When you go out into the world … what do you owe to others, and what do you owe to those in the future," said Washington and Lee President Kenneth Ruscio.

One array of solar panels will be installed on a new canopy on a campus parking garage. Another will cover most of the roof of Lewis Hall at Washington and Lee's Law School. Together they'll generate enough electricity to power 44 homes.

The project is designed, developed and financed by Staunton based Secure Futures.

"We own and operate it. And then we sell the electricity back to the customer, in this case, the university," explained Secure Futures CEO Tony Smith.

"We're in a position where we're able to invest now for payoffs in the future," said Ruscio

Read more:
http://www.nbc29.com/story/15230847/staunton-based-solar-firm-powers-up-washington-and-lee