Solar-power project debuts at local middle school
By The Bakersfield Californian
Sierra Middle School on Thursday unveiled its $200,000 solar power system courtesy of a PG&E grant that will power about 20 classrooms, lower the campus' overall energy bill and will be used as a catalyst for "green" education.
The school also celebrated its new title -- "California Solar Schools Model" -- the first in PG&E's Solar School Program that teaches the value of renewable energy and energy efficiency at 125 campuses throughout California.
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During Thursday's ribbon cutting ceremony for Sierra Middle School's solar project, 8th grader Monica Ramos serves up some hot mini pizzas that she and other students cooked in the small solar ovens for demonstration purposes on campus. Sierra received a $200,000 grant from PG&E to install solar panels that will power half the school.
Sierra Middle School student and pizza cook, 8th grader Monica Ramos, waits for the mini pizzas to cook during Thursday's ribbon cutting ceremony after PG&E gave the school a $200,000 grant to install solar panels. The small sun ovens were used to heat up pizzas for ceremony participants.
Students at Sierra Middle School work on some bead projects before a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday celebrating receipt of a $200,000 grant from PG&E to install solar panels. The panels will power half the campus, and save the district in energy costs.
During Thursday's ribbon cutting ceremony for Sierra Middle School's solar project, 8th grader Monica Ramos serves up some hot mini pizzas that she and other students cooked in the small solar ovens for demonstration purposes on campus. Sierra received a $200,000 grant from PG&E to install solar panels that will power half the school.
Joining the campus in the ribbon cutting celebration Thursday were district administrators, elected officials and solar and energy company representatives.
The 44 solar panels hang above the blacktop and generate 20 kilowatts, and could save about $6,000 per year in energy costs, officials said. The campus is also home to a 1 kilowatt solar array.
The campus since 2005 has been home to a Kids for Solar Energy Club, advised by teachers Allison Arnold and Robert Hodash, each of whom were recognized for their efforts.
-- Jorge Barrientos, Californian staff
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