A large photovoltaic canopy on the top deck of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s main parking structure and several rooftop systems that will generate about 2 megawatts (MW) of electricity is part of new renewable energy project to boost the campus toward its net-zero goal of generating as much electricity as it uses.

The canopy PV system will also provide shade for cars and pedestrians on the lower campus parking structure.

“Not only does this make economic sense, these projects will help the state achieve its overall 100 percent clean energy goals. It’s the right thing to do for future generations,” said David Lassner, UH Mānoa interim chancellor.

Mānoa campus has a base load of approximately 10MW and a peak load of about 20MW, which is the energy consumption equivalent of around 10,000 to 20,000 residential homes. An estimated 60 percent of the campus’ energy is consumed by precision Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems to support research activities.

 

Continue reading at University of Hawai'i at Mānoa.

Image via University of Hawai'i at Mānoa.