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Energy savings: Solar energy panels installed at two Coon Rapids elementary schools

Solar panels recently installed at Hoover Elementary School in Coon Rapids(09/29/2023) Anoka-Hennepin is exploring the benefits of solar energy as a possible energy savings tool. The district entered a no-cost agreement with Ideal Energy and Xcel Energy, installing solar panels at Adams and Hoover elementary schools in Coon Rapids. 

The goal is to improve energy efficiencies reducing costs across the system, and solar energy is an area the district is exploring as a possible energy savings tool.

📸 View photos from Adams Elementary and Hoover Elementary.

Between solar-generated energy and electric energy (which will still be required for total energy needs), the projected energy utility savings range from 10-25% annually over the next 20 years at each site. After 20 years, the district will own the solar panels outright and will realize 100% of the energy savings generated by the solar panels.

The solar panels will also provide additional educational opportunities for students to learn about renewable energy. Specifically, fourth-grade students will learn about different energy sources, discover how people use energy, and find out what impact energy use has on the environment. 

The solar installations are in alignment with the sustainability and solar development projects supported in the city of Coon Rapids. Coon Rapids has been recognized as a SolSmart Silver community for implementing best practices to make it easier for residents and businesses to install and access solar energy. There are currently approximately 120 solar installations in the city, including residential and commercial projects.