Standard Solar completed a 3.1 MWDC solar project on Lehigh University’s Goodman Campus in Northampton, Pennsylvania. The company acquired the project from EDF Renewables, who developed the array and collaborated on its construction and completion. Standard Solar is the project’s long-term owner and operator.
Credit: Standard Solar
“As someone who grew up in the area, it’s gratifying to support Lehigh in its mission to become a sustainability model in higher education,” said Eric Partyka, director of business development, Standard Solar. “This solar installation not only delivers clean energy to the campus but also plays a critical role in advancing the university’s ambitious carbon neutrality goals. The project showcases the power of collaboration in driving real progress toward a more sustainable future.”
The system is estimated to generate approximately 5,108 MWh of clean energy annually, supplying more than 100% of the Goodman Campus’ electrical power needs and offsetting 8% of the university’s total grid electricity consumption. Goodman Campus hosts most of the university’s athletic and event facilities and is used by students, staff, faculty and the community.
“This solar installation is a critical step in our Pathway to Zero as outlined in our Climate Action Strategy,” said Joseph J. Helble, Lehigh’s president. “By investing in on-site renewable energy, we are not only reducing emissions but also providing valuable learning opportunities for our students.”
The single-axis tracker array also offers hands-on research and learning opportunities for Lehigh students. Through a solar dashboard, students, faculty and the public can track real-time energy production and analyze the system’s performance.
“This project is about more than energy production — it’s about educating the next generation of leaders who will create solutions for a sustainable future,” said Audrey McSain, Lehigh’s sustainability director. “By integrating this project into our campus operations and curriculum, we are preparing our students to be future-makers who will address the climate challenges we face today and in the future.”
Lehigh is the sole off-taker of the energy produced through a long-term power purchase agreement with Standard Solar. The installation also integrates the broader campus environment and preserves the area’s natural plant life. Within Standard Solar’s 500-MW portfolio, more than 50 MW are dedicated specifically to serving academic institutions, including both K-12 schools and higher education establishments.
“EDF Renewables is proud to partner with Standard Solar on another successful solar installation, and support Lehigh’s commitment to sustainability,” said Myles Burnsed, VP of strategic development, distribution-scale power at EDF Renewables. “Our expertise in designing, developing and constructing customized energy solutions for corporations and institutions has been a cornerstone of our service to customers for over a decade. This collective expertise reinforces our dedication to creating tailored solutions that meet the evolving and unique needs of our partners.”
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