The Toppenish School District prides themselves in having an eye for the future. The Vision statement relating to their Science – Technology – Engineering – Math (STEM) program states that they will “Produce superior graduates who are college and career ready, prepared to excel at the college level, who make wise choices, think critically, communicate effectively, and solve problems. We do this by creating safe, innovative and stimulating learning environments and by developing interactive partnerships among parents, students, colleagues and the community.” When Apollo Solutions Group approached the district about installing a 100 kW Photo-Voltaic Solar Array the possibilities became endless. Once the school board heard about this project and with the eager approval from their Career and Technical Education Director, it became clear that this is something they could use for reducing utility costs as well as incorporating this project into their STEM curriculum.
After performing a Preliminary Energy Analysis it became very apparent that the Toppenish School District would be eligible for a Department of Commerce Solar Grant as well as utility rebate incentives. What made the project even more attractive to the district is that Apollo offered to have their engineers come and speak to the students about the system and how if functions.
Apollo was successful in applying for, and securing a solar grant on behalf of the Toppenish School District. The solar array is located south of the tennis courts at the High School and provides a utility cost savings of $15,000 annually.
