Hunterdon Central Regional High School, one of the largest high schools in New Jersey, and HelioSage, a developer of solar energy projects in the mid-Atlantic, have commissioned a 55 kilowatt solar array on the roof of the school's junior-senior science wing. The solar array, which will be owned, operated and maintained by HelioSage, furthers Hunterdon Central's track record of innovative, cost-effective facility management, and positions the school as a leader in sustainable operations.

A dedication ceremony at the school on February 22nd attracted Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-7), as well as a host of faculty, students and members of the local community interested in the project.

The array, which was installed by the Flemington-based solar integrator Advanced Solar Products, consists of two hundred thirty-four Sharp 235 watt solar panels, and will generate an estimated 67,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually – enough electricity for six average homes. The power produced from the panels will be sold to the school at a price well below prevailing utility rates, under a contract with HelioSage known as a power purchase agreement, or PPA.

Congressman Lance, commenting on the importance of Hunterdon’s leadership with regards to fiscal responsibility, stated, “We have to move forward in a way that is more responsible regarding our energy needs. Here at Hunterdon Central, you are part of that process.” Added Mr. Lance, “I commend the teachers, students, and the Board of Education. I am pleased to be with you here today in support of what you are doing, and I trust that your model will be used in other school districts.”

The solar array will offset around 53 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) each year of operation, and more than 500 tons over the length of the ten year contract - equivalent to taking 92 passenger cars off the road, or avoiding 163 tons of landfill waste. Said Superintendent Dr. Lisa Brady, “We are extraordinarily pleased, proud and thankful for this opportunity and look to expand what we’re doing here at Hunterdon Central - not only environmentally, but also in terms of providing these kinds of educational opportunities for our students.”

“A solar power purchase agreement presents schools with a tool for energy savings, education and environmental stewardship that is unparalleled in its simplicity,” said Chris Walmsley, Chief Executive Officer for HelioSage. “We hope that Hunterdon’s leadership is emulated by others, and look forward to a long partnership with the District.”

 

About Hunterdon Central Regional High School

Located in beautiful, historic Hunterdon County in central New Jersey, Hunterdon Central Regional High School serves the five municipalities of Delaware Township, East Amwell Township, Flemington Borough, Raritan Township, and Readington Township.  The District is comprised of 152.5 square miles and has a population of approximately 48,680 residents. One of the largest, campus-style high school districts in New Jersey, the school occupies a 72 acre campus and includes four general classroom buildings, a music building, a 2,000 seat Fieldhouse, and an Instructional Media Center. For more information about Hunterdon Central, please visit www.hcrhs.k12.nj.us.

 

About HelioSage

HelioSage is a solar energy services provider. The Company was founded by several of the principals of Greenlight Energy, Inc., one of the country's largest independent wind energy companies at the time of its 2006 sale to BP Alternative Energy. With experience built upon 400MW of financed renewable energy projects, HelioSage ensures risk reduced, financially sound investments in both solar electricity and solar energy systems. For more information about HelioSage, please visit www.heliosage.com.

Media Contact: Danny Van Clief, VP Business Development | dvanclief@heliosage.com