KIPP DC, Volt Energy, Sol Systems, and Washington Gas Energy Systems announce the grand opening of the new solar energy facility located at KIPP DC’s Douglass Campus in Washington, D.C. A private ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on November 14, 2013 at 9:00 a.m. with Dot Harris from the Department of Energy serving as the keynote speaker.
“Eighteen months ago, Volt Energy approached KIPP DC about developing a solar project and offering sustainable energy learning opportunities for our students,” said Alex Shawe, Director of Real Estate and General Counsel for KIPP DC. “We are thrilled to see this project come to fruition and for our students to have some insight into various STEM careers. KIPP DC is honored that Dot Harris and other special guests will be on hand to celebrate the solar unveiling with us.”
“The Department of Energy recently launched The Minorities In Energy Initiative to expand engagement opportunities for minorities in the energy sector. This project is a great example of several of the initiative’s goals, which include minority economic development, STEM education, and climate change,” stated Dot Harris, Director of the Office of Economic Impact and Diversity at the U.S. Department of Energy.
The 227 kW solar energy system consists of solar carports and rooftop solar panels. Volt Energy was the developer of the project and selected Green State Power to install the solar system. Sol Systems structured the transaction and financed the project on behalf of its investor client, Washington Gas Energy Systems, which will own and operate the solar energy facility.
Volt Energy and Sol Systems are headquartered in Washington, D.C. Washington Gas Energy Systems is based in McLean, Va.
“Investing in clean and renewable energy assets is a critical part of our business strategy, and we are proud to have invested in more than 16 megawatts of energy solutions throughout Washington, D.C. and surrounding areas,” said Sanjiv Mahan, vice president of business development at Washington Gas Energy Systems. “We commend KIPP DC for taking significant steps to reduce greenhouse gases and educate students about environmental sustainability, and thank Dot Harris and the Department of Energy for their deep commitment to research and development in solar energy.”
“We are proud to work with local partners, Volt Energy and Washington Gas Energy Systems, to bring innovative solar energy solutions to the District,” said George Ashton CFO of Sol Systems. “This partnership is good for D.C., the environment, and for the students that KIPP DC serves. Through this partnership, we have created electricity savings for the four KIPP DC schools at the Douglass Campus and a unique educational opportunity for students.”
Volt Energy will work closely with KIPP DC staff to deliver innovative sustainable energy learning opportunities. Plans will include engaging students through interactive workshops highlighting the traditional and renewable sources of energy and discussing career opportunities in STEM concentrated fields.
“Volt Energy is fully committed to delivering solar energy solutions to education institutions and is equally as passionate about providing tangible STEM opportunities to children. KIPP DC does a phenomenal job of preparing its students for college and future careers in all industries and we are excited to talk with their students about career opportunities in STEM areas,” said Gilbert Campbell III, co-owner of Volt Energy. “We look forward to our continued partnership to provide alternative energy solutions as well as exciting learning opportunities for students.”
