Solar panels on schools spark lights, imagination. Students learn that better technology is key to future

The solar panels installed on East High School’s roof produce 1.7 kilowatts of electricity – barely enough to power 17 100-watt light bulbs in one classroom.

In the context of science education, however, lighting up classrooms isn’t nearly as important as illuminating minds.

The panels are part of the Utah Solar Schools Initiative http://www.renewablesynergy.com/solarschools.htm started by Renewable Synergy LLC. The initiative installed its first solar photovoltaic panels atop the roofs of publicly funded charter school Entheos Academy January 2007 in partnership with a grant from Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky Program, which promotes renewable energy sources. In partnership with Gardner Alternative Energy Systems last August, the company also installed solar panels atop the Dolores Dore Eccles Health, Wellness and Athletic Center building at Westminster College.

By Ben Fulton
The Salt Lake Tribune

Full Story: http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_8917121