San Lorenzo Schools Celebrate Completion of Solar Panel Project

Ths sun could not have been shining brighter for the (SLZUSD) and Chevron Energy Solutions on Monday afternoon as they announced the .

Held at gymnasium, dozens turned up to celebrate effort through a green ribbon-cutting ceremony.

"It is a partnership that allows our district the opportunity to actively work and contribute towards lessening our carbon footprint, and in the process, educate our children about the importance of playing an active role in the protection of our environment," said SLZUSD Superintendent Dr. Dennis Byas.

The project, expected to save the district a total of $4.5 million in its lifespan, was funded through Measure O, a general obligation bond passed by voters in Novermber 2008, allowing for the renovation and modernization of San Lorenzo schools.

The savings will go towards SLZUSD's general fund, which can be used a number of ways to towards strengthening the district's academic performance and student achievements.

"Every dollar we're able to save with this program goes back to student programs," Byas said.

Ken Pimental, Director of Communications for Chevron Energy Solutions, agreed that the project is not only a mutual investment for the company and the district but also for the community and the environment.

"It's providing students real world examples of what the future looks like," he said.

Teresa Mayer, CFO and Director of Finance for Chevron Energy Solutions, said the first $1 million in savings is expected to come by 2017.

The solar canopies, which generate 1,021 kilowatts of clean energy, not only reduce the SLZUSD's utility costs but also provide students and staff with shaded parking.

The eight facilities in which panels were installed include , , , , , , , and .

San Lorenzo High has truly embraced the project by including it as a focus of one of its small learning communities, the Green Academy. Funded by the California Deparment of Education, the group of 100 students keep the school aware of environmental and sustainable practices and helps prepare students for environemental careers.

Gren Academy member Ashley Brekke spoke at the ceremony about how monumental the solar panel project completion is for the learning community and all it strives for.

"Seeing [the solar panels] here is a testament to all Green Academy has done," she said.