Renewable Energy in our Schools

St. Vrain Valley School District is proud to showcase how our schools are leading the charge towards a greener and more sustainable future through the integration of renewable energy sources. Across our district, numerous schools have embraced renewable energy technologies not only to reduce the environmental impact but also to enhance learning experiences, generate cost savings, and promote greater building efficiency. 

At Mead High School, The Mead Energy Academy develops leaders with the knowledge, skills and passion necessary to actively participate in the complex and changing field of energy, and through unique research experiences create solutions for the world’s future energy needs. 

At Red Hawk Elementary, a 350 KW ground mounted array generates 546,000 kWh/year. This meets 95% of the school’s electricity needs and saves around $40,000 a year in utility costs.

Westview Middle School used $20,000 won from the ReNew Our Schools competition to fund a 6.76 KW solar away. This includes 26 solar panels, which were installed in the Spring of 2015. The panels save around 5.5 acres of forests in the U.S. or prevent 7,300 pounds of coal from being burned each year.

Niwot High School has a 500 KW rooftop system that generations 701,000 kWh/year and meets 62% of the school’s electricity needs. This ultimately saves around $75,000 a year in energy expenses.

Erie Middle School has a 365 KW rooftop system that generates 525,000 kWh/year and meets 72% of the school’s electricity needs. This ultimately saves around $52,000 a year in utility bills.

In 2011, Erie High School won the ReNew Our Schools competition and was able to implement solar energy with the award money. Atop the cafeteria are nearly 50 solar panels that generate about 13,400 kWh/year.

Lyons Middle Senior has a 21 KW solar array that generates 3,680 kWh/year.