Solar Energy for Colorado State University

As one of the leading sustainable universities in the nation, Colorado State University (CSU) is committed to utilizing renewable energy to power their operations and reduce operating costs. In June of 2009, Bella Energy completed a prominent solar array on the Engineering Building of CSU’s Fort Collins campus.

The new solar energy system was installed to provide students, faculty and visitors with an eye-catching view of renewable energy in action, and to reduce CSU’s environmental footprint. The system can be seen from the central campus plaza and is positioned near the Lory Student Center. Funding for the project was provided in part through a grant from the Governor’s Energy Office.

The design called for a highly technical installation, utilizing a custom racking system that was craned into position during installation. Funding requirements and campus activities required a timely installation, so as not to disturb students. However, the Bella Energy team rose to the challenge and completed the complex and beautiful installation in only five days.

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Bella Energy’s resulting 18.9 kW solar energy system provides over 25,000 kWh of clean energy per year, and will reduce the annual carbon footprint of the Engineering Building by over 51,000 lbs of CO2. CSU’s new solar system provides an aesthetically pleasing and highly visual integration of solar energy into the CSU campus environment. The visibility of the design also helps demonstrate their commitment to renewable and sustainable energy, while providing a learning experience for the students.

Tags: Case Study, Project of the Month, solar