For a University awarded as one of the most sustainable schools in the country, Foundation University is currently working on the installation of solar panels on school buildings.
Engineers are working double time to install a total of 140 solar panels that will produce 32,000 watts of electricity that would save 30 percent of the energy cost of the North Campus alone.
Zorich Guia, division manager of Entheos IT, and the architect in charge of the construction, said each of the 992mm x 1642mm panels installed above the butterfly roof of the FU gymnasium will generate up to 230 watts.
“Using solar power to generate clean solar electricity will cut energy costs for the University, and will definitely make a lasting benefits to the FU community,” he said.
Although this latest project of the University may involve a hefty sum, Guia deems it a worthwhile investment, as he believes that the long-term benefits of this project outweigh the initial costs.
Victor Vicente “Dean” Sinco, vice president for finance & administration, said the reduced electric costs would enable the University to put air conditioners in the classrooms.
Guia said that with solar technology, FU will contribute to environmental sustainability. “Also, the use of solar power as an educational tool for students is immeasurably valuable,” he said.
The solar panels are being provided by the Environmental Advocacy on Solutions & Technologies Corp. Philippines, a renewable energy consultancy company promoting alternative energy through bio-diversity conservation and climate change mitigation projects.
The installation of the solar panels is expected to be complete before June. (Paul Edward Bajas)
