Energy Efficiency, Solar, Sourcing Renewables  -  July 19, 2018

Fordham University benefits from largest NYC solar array

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) announced on July 18 the completion of the largest solar system installed in New York City, located in Staten Island. The 3.1-megawatt solar array will offset a large portion of the electricity used by Fordham University and Fordham Preparatory School in the Bronx.

"This solar installation project on Staten Island, the largest in New York City, will provide clean energy and help protect the environment," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, in a statement from NYSERDA. "The system further supports the state’s aggressive goal of 50% of electricity coming from renewable energy sources by 2030. While the federal government turns its back on protecting the environment, we’re continuing to work to combat climate change in New York."

The solar array is comprised of more than 9,000 solar panels and will generate nearly four million kilowatt hours of clean solar energy each year, enough to offset 20 percent of Fordham University’s electricity use and 37 percent of Fordham Preparatory School’s use. The ground-mounted system was installed on approximately 10 acres of unused industrial property in Staten Island. The system was designed, developed and installed by New York City-based EnterSolar.

The statement explains that the project uses an arrangement known as remote net metering, whereby solar that is installed at one site can offset electric bills for customers at different locations. "With the continued cost declines associated with solar energy, the state is committed to ensuring that the policies and regulations that compensate solar production do so in a way that benefits all electric customers while also benefiting the electric grid and delivering the biggest bang for the buck when it comes to reducing carbon emissions."

"This new solar installation reflects Fordham University's ongoing commitment to sustainability and the environment. We were very pleased to be able to partner with Governor Cuomo’s initiative, Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) for New York," said Marco A. Valera, vice president for facilities management at Fordham University. In addition to the Staten Island solar array, which will provide 2.6 megawatts of solar power to the University, Fordham plans to install a new solar array of approximately 1 megawatt on the roof our parking facility at the Rose Hill, Bronx, campus.

Share this valuable information with your colleagues using the buttons below: