Shenandoah University installs largest rooftop solar array among Va. universities

With 1,337 solar panels spread across three buildings, Shenandoah University in Winchester now has the largest rooftop solar power system among the state's colleges and universities, the university announced Friday.

“We are proud to highlight Shenandoah University’s belief in and dedication to environmental stewardship,” Shenandoah University President Tracy Fitzsimmons said in a statement. “With this installation, Shenandoah demonstrates not only the power of solar energy but also the power of people working together to create a better tomorrow.”

Shenandoah's solar panels have the capacity to generate 500 kilowatts of electricity, or 675,000 kilowatt hours per year. The panels are installed on the Alson H. Smith Jr. Library, the Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre and the James R. Wilkins Jr. Athletics and Events Center.

The university estimates the solar panels will net $1.5 million in electricity savings per year during the next 35 years. 

It's funded in part by Virginia's first solar crowdfunding campaign, which is being led by Staunton-based Secure Futures LLC. 

“On-campus solar energy at Shenandoah University is being funded in part through Virginia’s first solar crowdfunding campaign,” said Tony Smith, CEO of Secure Futures. “Through this innovative program, members of the community are able to invest in the development of solar projects at five different nonprofit institutions around Virginia, starting with Shenandoah University.”