Mountain Empire Community College in Virginia has completed a 767-kilowatt solar energy system through a Power Purchase Agreement with Secure Solar Futures, requiring no upfront capital investment from the institution. The installation comprises 1,651 Jinko Solar panels and is expected to generate approximately 31 percent of the college's annual electricity requirements, with projected savings of $621,986 over the 25-year contract period.
The project was constructed by GOT Electric and represents a growing trend among educational institutions to incorporate renewable energy infrastructure while managing operational costs. The system's output will offset a significant portion of the college's energy consumption, potentially reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining stable, predictable energy expenses through the fixed Power Purchase Agreement structure.
Beyond the energy and financial benefits, the solar project supported workforce development at the institution, with five Mountain Empire Community College students completing a training program through the installation process. These students subsequently secured ongoing employment positions with GOT Electric, the project's construction contractor, creating a direct pathway from educational opportunity to employment in the renewable energy sector.