Beverly High School

Recently, I drove to nearby Beverly High School, MA, to watch my brother’s track meet. From the street near the track, the construction of the brand new high school building can be seen, multiple stories high and right next to the old building. The new school is slated for completion in October 2010 and is sure to be both architecturally beautiful, and energy efficient. Another prominent feature that is visible is the school’s set of solar panels.

The solar field in Beverly was one of six installed in 1981 by the federal government under the Jimmy Carter administration and is the only one still standing today. The solar field has greatly benefited the Beverly High School community. Currently, it generates about 100 kilowatts of power for the school. As of last June, a few additions were made and the solar field provided about 8 % of the school’s energy needs, and this number is about to grow.

Now, the solar field is due for another upgrade – this one being a multi-million dollar project.  When added, the new panels and technology will produce between 300 and 400 kilowatts of power and also quadruple the percentage of energy it provides for the school. Various grants from the government and other sources will fund this major upgrade for Beverly High School.

Not only is the solar field saving the school money every year by using a renewable energy source, it is also a great asset to the community in other ways. It is locally important because the public has access to the solar field for educational and historical benefits. Young students learn about the current impact and the great potential it has, and this is sure to stay with them and continue to be in their thoughts as they advance and become the generation that will make more of these changes into the future.

In my high school years of traveling to Beverly High School for sports competitions and other school events, I originally did not even know the solar field existed, and even when I was conscious of it, I did not realize the significance of its effect. These efforts should definitely be more highlighted in order to inform the public of what one school is trying to do. A great change can start from one county, one city, even one school. If the success of the solar panels were more celebrated, surrounding areas may attempt to recreate and expand on this “go green” initiative.

As we approach Build Baby Build week - six days from now – let’s celebrate each local effort that has its own impact.

What have you seen in your own community?  Please share in the comments below!

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