SUNY Delhi Solar Project Offers Educational and Economic Benefits

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James Tucker, Eric Misner and David Daye of Catskill Solar install one of the 100 panels for SUNY Delhi’s solar energy project. Tucker and Misner are Delhi graduates.

DELHI, NY (07/29/2011)(readMedia)-- SUNY Delhi is installing a system of solar electric modules to provide a permanent site for demonstrating renewable energy technology to students preparing for careers in electrical and building construction while offsetting a portion on the college's energy use. The project is thanks to a $172,000 grant by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

"This project is an example of how Delhi is expanding its leadership in photovoltaic energy," said President Candace S. Vancko. "We are taking steps to provide new learning opportunities for students while conserving resources." Delhi is one of only three institutions in New York State that offer nationally-accredited photovoltaic programs.

The installation involves 100 solar panels mounted on poles adjacent to the college's Electrical Technologies Center. The proximity to Electrical Technology classrooms will provide an ongoing learning experience for Delhi students and for participants in the college's accredited photovoltaic workshops. Two additional solar modules will be installed exclusively for a laboratory where students will learn how to set up and break down a solar electric system.

The modules will produce 22.4 kilowatts of energy collected through the solar panels and will offset up to 25 percent of the annual electric usage for the Electrical Technologies Center. The project's completion is set for August 2011.

SUNY Delhi is accredited by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council, with assistance from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), for teaching the design and installation of solar electric systems as part of its Electrical Construction and Instrumentation curriculum. Delhi also offers photovoltaic training courses as a public service.

SUNY Delhi is offering the public a five-day photovoltaic workshop on campus beginning August 8. For more information on Delhi's photovoltaic workshops, please contact Business and Community Services at (607) 746-4545.