Solar Array Partnership
The photovoltaic systems on both the Rocklin and Grass Valley campuses are the result of a public/private partnership with Borrego Solar Systems, Inc. Through this joint venture Sierra College;
- Strengthens its commitment to financial and environmental sustainability,
- Provides students from the photovoltaic program a ‘learn by doing’ opportunity,
- Helps stimulate the local economy through the creation of new ongoing private sector jobs.
These on-campus solar systems will be operated and maintained under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Borrego Solar. Through the PPA, Sierra College avoids the upfront cost of financing the solar installation and equipment and in turn agrees to purchase approximately 1,883,400 kWhs of clean energy per year at below-the-grid rates. In the first year of operation, this will amount to roughly $50,000 in savings, and as utility rates for traditional forms of energy rise over time (historically at 3%-5% per annum) the savings passed on to Sierra College will also increase proportionally.
Sierra College Solar Project - the solar project is moving forward and installation of the parking lot shade structures is underway on the Rocklin Campus and about to commence at NCC, followed by installation of roof arrays. A ground mount array will also be installed on the cut slope above the Public Safety Training Center at NCC.