San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

The Daily Aztec

San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

The Daily Aztec




San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

The Daily Aztec

Solar panels help to power Children’s Center

Copyright Courtney Jackson / Staff Photographer

By Ashley Morgan, Staff Writer

Newly installed solar panels at the San Diego State Children’s Center became operational earlier this month and are projected to save the center $8,000 annually in electric bills.

The implementation of the panels are a result of the 2008 “enhance, evolve, innovate” referendum, which increased student fees to allocate $250,000 to Associated Students’ Green Love Sustainability Advisory Board for sustainable upgrades of A.S. facilities.

“This is a wonderful gift,” Children’s Center Director Robin Judd said. “The children’s program was a recipient as an A.S. program of some of these funds to start making these sustainability changes and upgrades.”

The solar photovoltaic system will provide about 35 percent of the Children’s Center’s energy needs yearly and is intended to reduce more than 70,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions.

“I love walking by the Children’s Center and seeing the completed solar installation,” Tara Kelly, A.S. sustainability commissioner, said. “The Associated Students is very concerned with our environmental impact, and this 28kW solar photovoltaic system is helping us reduce our carbon footprint.”

The panels were installed as a carport covering two rows of student parking spaces in front of the center, and there are plans to construct a second phase which will cover two more rows, according to Judd.

The “Enhance, Evolve, Innovate Referendum” from 2008 helped pay for the solar panels at the Children’s Center. The panels provide about 35 percent of energy needed to power the center, saving $8,000 annually. Copyright Courtney Jackson / Staff Photographe

“It was a little bit (difficult) when they closed off the parking lot and there was less parking, but it was worth what it’s going to mean for the center,” a mother who utilizes the center, Thelma Chavez, said. “The only thing, well I think this is just because I drive a big truck, I just have to park in a different spot.”

The installation not only means parent fees at the center will remain unchanged, but it also provides a new opportunity to educate the children, Judd said.

“I explained to my daughter what they are and why they were important when we walked out: that it helps the planet using solar energy instead of just paying for other kinds of energy,” Chavez said. “I explained to her this is how we help so we’re not wasting money, so I think that’s a way the kids can learn and also if it helps saving the center money then it can help them provide better programs for our kids.”

The project is one of many Green Love is taking on this year, including Aztec Recreation Center solar thermal heating and lighting projects.

“The A.S. commitment toward sustainability programs and projects is stronger than ever,” A.S. President Grant Mack said. “Projects such as the Solar PV array at the Children’s Center is another step we have taken to reach our A.S. long-term sustainability goals, which will be officially announced in spring, after they are approved by the A.S. Council.”

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San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913
Solar panels help to power Children’s Center