Today, we flipped the switch and our greenhouse is powered by electricity generated with solar panels installed on the roof of the pavilion serving as our outdoor classroom.

This 4.62 KW system will provide adequate power for greenhouse operation when in full operation.  A Fortress eVault lithium storage system stores the energy produced by the solar panels and provides continuous power to the circuits supplying the greenhouse systems.  The battery should be able to power the greenhouse for at least 12 hours even when the panels are not producing.

An app is available to monitor electricity production and usage, and we are hoping that students in our Sustainability and Renewable Resources major will be able to examine the system and use the data it generates as they consider how renewable energy can be used to power a small facility.  Shout outs go to Jeff Moore, our Title V lab manager, for making this happen!