Lone Star College–CyFair unveils new solar panels

Photo courtesy LSC–CyFair

Lone Star College–CyFair president Audre Levy prepares to cut the ribbon unveiling the college's new solar panels.

Lone Star College–CyFair is increasing its sustainability efforts with the help of solar panels and an electric vehicle, both of which were unveiled April 24 during an Earth Day event.

"This really puts us on the map," said Audre Levy, college president.

The two solar panels—manufactured by Ignite Solar—are set up outside the Center for the Arts building. They will be tied into the college's power grid, along with two solar trackers that rotate based on the time of day and season. Additionally, there are two battery back-up systems for any campus organization that want to use the panels as a source of electricity outside.

The college also accepted the donation of an electric vehicle from Steve Kobb, past president of the Houston Electric Auto Association.

"I'm so glad Lone Star has accepted this vehicle, because what we're talking about is not going on now, but it's what will happen in 10 or 20 years," he said. "This is a rolling laboratory and a place to learn the basics."

The college is also exploring the possibility of installing an electric car charging station on campus, which would be available to the public.