South Dakota Mines has energized its first-ever solar installation, marking a milestone in the university's commitment to renewable energy and innovation in STEM education. Located at the Vanderboom Laboratory for Entrepreneurial Research building on campus, the new solar array features an 87.2 kW DC system comprised of 160 solar modules and state-of-the-art inverters.
The system is designed to deliver significant energy savings to the campus while serving as a model for sustainability and providing real-time data for student courses and projects. This project was made possible through the combined expertise of GenPro Energy Development and GenPro Energy Solutions. GenPro Energy Development initiated the project with a comprehensive feasibility study, ensuring a technically and financially sound foundation. GenPro Energy Solutions, recognized for excellence in solar engineering, procurement, and construction, delivered the installation to the highest standards.
Jerilyn Roberts, Vice President of Operations at Mines, explained that the university had been exploring solar options for many years. "The Vanderboom Laboratory for Entrepreneurial Research building was the perfect fit as the building had ample roof space for solar panels and provided the return on investment needed to allow state energy funds to be used as matching funds to complete the project," Roberts said. "The solar installation will allow the campus the ability to use real-time data from the solar panels in student courses and projects."
Molly Brown, Managing Partner of GenPro Energy Development, noted that their feasibility analysis ensured the project was grounded in technical and financial best practices. "GenPro Energy Solutions then delivered a high-quality installation that brings this vision to life for South Dakota Mines and the greater Rapid City community," Brown stated.
The solar installation is expected to reduce campus energy costs and carbon emissions, supporting the university's goal of environmental stewardship and hands-on student engagement. This collaborative project demonstrates the power of local expertise and innovation in advancing clean energy solutions for South Dakota. The project serves as a practical case study for renewable energy implementation in educational institutions and provides valuable data for students studying engineering, environmental science, and sustainability.
For more information about the engineering and construction services behind this project, visit GenPro Energy Solutions. The installation represents a significant step forward in demonstrating the financial and educational viability of solar energy in South Dakota, potentially serving as a model for other institutions in the region considering similar renewable energy investments.
