After signing multiple solar power purchase agreements with 25 California schools, SunEdison started installing solar systems atop parking canopies at each of the campuses. The solar systems will save approximately US$30 million on energy costs over the next 20 years.

Under the agreements, SunEdison will install 7.4MW of solar projects on parking canopies of the schools’ parking lots. SunEdison will also own and operate each system while the schools buy the solar electricity at lower rates than offered by their local utility. The completion is scheduled in 2016.

"This project shows how districts can become more self-sufficient financially,'' said Dr. Allan Mucerino, Duarte Unified School District's Superintendent. “And from an educational perspective, our students can learn how consumers make decisions about purchasing energy. I'm excited that we're able to provide a hands-on experience for our students, with these solar systems we are teaching our students about one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy."

California joint powers authority SPURR helped the districts arrange the solar power agreements with SunEdison. SPURR helps its clients get a high-performance solar system from a reputable solar company through its competitive procurement program.