In October of 2005, Berea College approved a student proposal for the installation of a 1 kilowatt photovoltaic array on the Alumni Building to convert sunlight to electricity and support a portion of the electrical needs of the building. This past week the installation went online.

In celebration of the project and in honor of the donors who made it possible, a reception will be held on Tuesday, February 20 from 5:00-7:00 pm in Baird Lounge of the Alumni Building. Berea President Larry Shinn will make brief remarks on behalf of the Administrative Committee who approved the project and provided half of the funding. College sustainability coordinator Tammy Clemons will comment on campus sustainability efforts of students, and Josh Bills, the solar installer, will explain the technology and take questions. A dedication and refreshments will follow.

The installation of this solar array reinforces Berea College’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The idea for a solar panel was originated in Spring 2005 by the 10x10 (Ten by Ten) Student Initiative who outlined the proposal to present to the college. The 10x10 campaign raised nearly half of the costs for the installation of the solar panel through student, faculty, staff, and community pledges. The solar panel not only signifies Berea’s commitment to sustainability, but seeks to raise the consciousness of the Berea Community about the current reliance on polluting energy sources and the fast depletion of fossil fuels.

10x10 is a campaign organized by HEAL, which is also part of a growing national movement of students and youth working for energy justice on college campuses and communities around the country. 10x10 works to reduce overall energy use at Berea College, and encourages Berea College to meet ten percent of the energy demand with clean renewable sources by the year 2010.