JURUPA VALLEY, Calif. — Jurupa Unified School District and Chevron Energy Solutions have announced the completion of a 2.7 megawatt solar and energy efficiency program expected to reduce energy costs at 27 school sites and save the district more than $34 million. The project added solar photovoltaic panels mounted on parking and shade structures at nine campuses; replaced 400 air conditioning units, most of them more than 20 years old; and upgraded more than 21,000 lighting fixtures. Coupled with comprehensive energy education curriculum content, the program also hopes to inspire students to learn about, and experience, clean energy technologies and concepts.

The program is expected to cut Jurupa Unified School District’s electrical utility purchases by 26 percent and reduce carbon emissions by more than 3,463 metric tons.

“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for environmentally sustainable operations at Jurupa Unified School District — one that allows the community to experience the benefits of clean power without negatively impacting limited resources,” said Elliott Duchon, school district superintendent. “We are pleased about the work Chevron Energy Solutions has completed to enable Jurupa Unified School District to bring the benefits of solar energy to our community.”

Chevron Energy Solutions designed, engineered, and installed the solar system, and will perform operation and maintenance services, as well as guaranteeing the system’s performance. The company also implemented energy efficiency improvements to campus HVAC and lighting systems, which are expected to reduce the district’s annual energy consumption, improve lighting quality and aesthetics, reduce maintenance costs, and provide consistent indoor climate quality.

“Through this program, Chevron Energy Solutions is helping Jurupa Unified School District demonstrate fiscal and environmental leadership,” said Jim Davis, Chevron Energy Solutions president. “The district is investing in sustainable programs designed to deliver ongoing value and improve the learning environment for the community’s students.”

For more information, visit www.chevronenergy.com.

Publication date: 11/5/2012