Stonehill College Carport

Stonehill College is a four-year, Catholic liberal arts college located in Easton, Massachusetts, founded by the Congregation of Holy Cross in 1948. The College is primarily residential, with 2400 students who live and learn on Stonehill’s beautiful 384-acre campus. Through its curriculum of liberal arts, sciences, and pre-professional programs, the College provides an education of the highest caliber that fosters critical thinking, free inquiry and the interchange of ideas. Stonehill educates the whole person so that each of our graduates thinks, acts, and leads with courage toward the creation of a more just and compassionate world.

Challenge

Stonehill College has made it a priority to operate their campus with a commitment to sustainability. The latest piece in their renewable puzzle came in the form of a giant carport array, dominating one of the campus’ main parking lots, and nearly doubling the amount of energy the school receives from solar power. As good stewards of the planet, their dedication extends to using resources as responsibly as possible, especially considering how demanding operating the College can be.

Solution

Since the initial projects began in 2013, Stonehill have been dedicated to expanding the role renewable energy plays on their campus, and the results are palpable. Starting with a couple small rooftops, and blossoming into MW scale solar fields and carports, the campus’ commitment to renewable energy has made them one of the greenest colleges in the country.

Results

40% reduction of electricity costs

With the addition of the new solar canopies, Stonehill College increased the total solar energy production to over 40 percent of the campus’ annual electrical usage while offering additional savings and a long-term hedge against rising energy costs. This project further reinforces Stonehill’s commitment to sustainability through green renewable energy and demonstrates leadership within the academic community.