Green Initiatives

 

The development of green energy initiatives and sustainability projects at PennWest Edinboro attests to our ambition to be a responsible and forward-thinking member of not only our local community but also of the larger world. As an academic institution we must lead by example and demonstrate to our students how to be responsible members of society. Transformation takes place in big and small ways, and with sustainable resources like the solar array on Scot Road and geothermal heating systems in several of our residence halls and academic buildings, PennWest Edinboro is doing what it can to reduce its carbon footprint and help the environment.

Over the last several years, the University has undertaken a number of initiatives to do its part in working toward an energy efficient future. Here are just a handful of the green initiatives that are ongoing on the Edinboro campus:

Perhaps the best example of PennWest Edinboro's commitment to sustainability, however, is the solar array, located just off Scot Road near the Mike S. Zarovski Sports and Recreation Center. Unveiled on Nov. 2, 2011, the array is a $1.16 million solar power generating system, capable of producing 227,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually - enough to power 23.5 average homes for an entire year - and offset 262 tons of annual carbon emissions.

Future plans for the ongoing development of new and innovative green initiatives will include Edinboro students, as well. The implementation of green initiatives by students will help them learn about the technologies and practices used in careers directly and indirectly related to sustainability, a fast-growing field.

It is our hope that the implementation of the above mentioned initiatives, as well as future sustainability projects, will enhance the living and learning experience of our students, faculty and staff by offering a cleaner and more efficient learning and work environment.

With reductions in state-based funding a standing concern, energy efficiency offers another benefit: It helps us reduce the cost of operating campus. The future of PennWest Edinboro is a green one, marked by improved energy consumption efficiency, reduced greenhouse gas emission and a lessened environmental impact. Working hard to conserve natural resources and provide a sustainable tomorrow for our current, former and future students and employees is a priority for PennWest Edinboro.