Old Dominion University gets nod from Dominion for rooftop solar power

Dominion Virginia Power has selected Old Dominion University to be the first participant in the company’s Solar Partnership Program. More than 600 solar panels will be installed this summer on the roof of ODU’s Student Recreation Center, which will generate 132 kilowatts for the electric grid.

“This installation will pave the way for us to assess the benefits of solar facilities on our electrical distribution system,” Ken Barker, Dominion Virginia Power vice president-Customer Solutions, said in a statement. “This new program is already encouraging the growth of solar energy in Virginia as many other customers have contacted us and shown interest.”

The Virginia State Corporation Commission approved the solar program last November. Dominion will construct and operate up to 30 megawatts of company-owned solar facilities on leased rooftops or on the grounds of commercial businesses and public properties throughout the company’s Virginia service area. Once the program is fully implemented, it would generate enough power for 7,500 homes. Each installation could generate as much as two megawatts of electricity.

According to Dominion, the 132-kilowatt solar project should generate enough power during daylight hours to supply the energy needs of about 35 homes. The project is expected to be completed late this summer.