George Mason Goes Green
POSTED: 6:11 a.m. EDT, June 12, 2008
By: FCCPS Communications
In an effort to be more energy efficient, George Mason High School now gets some of its electric power from the sun. That’s because 18 solar panels were installed on the high school roof, last week, and will deliver nearly three kilowatts of power directly to the school. The project was spearheaded by high school senior James Peterson.
“Solar power is one of the fastest increasing forms of alternative energy and offers us savings on not only our energy bills, but also on our carbon footprint,” Peterson said.
Peterson came up with the concept, researched it and brought all needed partners to the table to make it a reality.
“I’ve never seen a high school student orchestrate such a business enterprise,” said George Mason Principal Robert Snee. “This project demonstrates our commitment to the environment, and it will give our students a direct experience with a key form of renewable energy.”
In addition to the solar panels, the project includes a computer system to track power production data. Teachers plan to incorporate the data in the school’s science and math programs.
The project was funded through donations from local businesses, organizations and citizens, and it was installed by the renewable energy development firm SWITCH; roofing contractor Magco, Inc. and electrical contractor Walsh Electric. Major sponsors include BP Solar, the City of Falls Church, the Falls Church Village Preservation and Improvement Society (VPIS), the Falls Church Education Foundation, Don Beyer Volvo, Family Medicine in Falls Church, the Foot and Ankle Center, ICF Consulting, the Adele M. Thomas Charitable Foundation, EnergyShift, The Young Group, and Moore Architects PC.
Peterson would like to see his idea take hold among the student body and be expanded down the road.
“It’s something our community cares about and something that Falls Church can make a statement with.” Peterson said.
Archives
|
George Mason senior, James Peterson (l), oversees installation of 18 solar panels on the school's roof.
|
