buildings reducing the school’s CO2 emissions by 6.3 million pounds over the 25 year life of the system. This CO2 reduction is equivalent to planting 30,000 trees or eliminating 6.9 million driving miles. The electricity generated by the solar energy system will cost the school about 30% less than electricity from the utility.

The solar system was installed by Connecticut-based Alteris Renewables, recently ranked the fastest growing renewable energy company in the Northeast. As the third party owner of the solar panels, EOS Ventures financed the system enabling Avon to go solar without the usual large upfront capital investment. Additional financial support from the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF) was secured for this project.

“I am proud that our school is positioned at the forefront of the sustainability movement in our country,” said Kenneth LaRocque, Headmaster of Avon Old Farms, “We are passionately committed to reducing our energy consumption and waste, and to creating a sustainable campus.”

The large capacity of this solar electric system highlights Avon’s commitment to a sustainable environment. Along with a multitude of other energy saving initiatives at the school, this solar array demonstrates that Avon Old Farms is a leader among the Green Schools Alliance, an association of K to12 public, private and independent schools uniting to take action on climate change and the environment.

“We commend Avon Old Farms School for taking this major solar step forward as part of their commitment to the Green Schools Alliance,” said Ron French, President of the Solar Division at Alteris Renewables. “With this installation and Avon’s other energy efficiency measures, Avon is inspiring students to lead us toward a more sustainable future.”

“This installation is an excellent example of incorporating solar PV at an educational institution. In addition to offsetting the school’s power usage, the solar array will help teach hundreds of young people about renewable energy technology and sustainability,” said Norma Glover, Chair of the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund. “The installation, which is the largest of thirteen solar arrays installed at private schools in Connecticut, demonstrates that Avon Old Farms School is firmly committed to clean, renewable energy. As a resident of Avon, I am delighted to have such a wonderful environmental steward in my backyard.”