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HomeMy WebLinkAboutWestlake Academy's Future of solar energy presentationWESTLAKE ACADEMY: FUTURE OF SOLAR ENERGY MY PROPOSAL I recommend that Westlake install a 16 panel solar array on the top of the new Multi Purpose Hall. View from Street View from Courtyard WHAT IS A SOLAR PANEL? •A solar panel is a large blue panel used to catch the sun’s rays (photons) and turn them into usable energy. •A solar panel is made up of many solar cells, these solar cells are what converts photons to useable energy. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 45% 24% 20% 6% 5% US Power Generation Coal Natural Gas Nuclear Hydro Other •In the United States, an estimated 40% of all CO2 emissions are from burning fossil fuels for electricity. •By becoming a school supporting solar energy, we can help to reduce CO2 emissions and influence others to do the same. WHY I GOT INVOLVED •Schools around us are beginning to use solar energy. •The reduction of CO2 emissions will allow for cleaner air to breathe. •Long term savings for the school and possible energy independence. •This is the first time in history that solar energy is cost effective. •Three to four times a day, a 100 car coal train passes Westlake on its way to a plant where the coal is burned to produce the electricity we use. EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS •The EMU (Education Monitoring Unit) is a device that displays the amount of energy solar panels are producing. •The EMU sends the data to a website that can be accessed by students and teachers. INSTALLATION IS DONATED •All installation and maintainence services have been offered to Westlake courtesy of local solar installation business owner, Mr. Thompson. COSTS OF MATERIALS -Up until the end of 2016, the Federal Government offers a 30% tax rebate off the total installation costs of a solar array. -After 2016, we are unsure if the Government will keep this tax rebate the same, or will change it. Installation and Maintenance Costs •Besides the $150 electrician fee, installation is completely free. •The Solar panels are very durable, and have a 25 year warranty. No predicted maintenance costs. WHAT RESIDENTS WANT •According to the 2013 town survey, residents find that aesthetic appeal was one of the most important reasons they moved to Westlake. The solar panels will be placed on a flat roof, invisible from ground level. •Westlake Academy is also one of the most important reasons people moved to the town. Solar panels are able to save Westlake Academy more than $20,000 in the next 25 years (per my calculations), assuming electricity costs stay at 10 cents per Kwh. This money will surely help the school. Education is improved by making students more environmentally aware. •Quality of life is the most important reason people moved to Westlake. By becoming a more eco-friendly town, residents may feel that their quality of life has improved. QUESTIONS?