VIOLA SCHOOL DISTRICT BREAKS GROUND ON CAMPUS-BASED SOLAR SYSTEM

VIOLA SCHOOL DISTRICT PARTNER WITH TODAY’S POWER TO INSTALL SOLAR ARRAY TO SUPPLY OVER 90% OF DISTRICT’S ENERGY NEEDS

In conjunction with Viola School District’s (VSD) monthly school board meeting, a ground breaking ceremony was held to announce the start of construction on a campus-based solar facility that will supply over 90% of the school district’ energy.

Viola School District’s Superintendent, John May, issued a request for proposals of the purchase of solar energy in February of 2020,and deciding to save with solar, VSD partnered with Today’s Power, Inc. (TPI) of North Little Rock to develop a 480-kW DC/375 kW AC single-axis tracking system near Viola Elementary School. May said the solar facility is one way in which the district can be fiscally responsible and energy friendly. “As a public-school district, we feel it is our duty and obligation to use all available resources to be fiscally responsible. The development of a clean, renewable energy system for our campus is an outstanding example of action to that goal” he said.

Made up of 1,280 solar panels, the solar array is projected to save Viola School on their annual operating costs. Through the solar array, Viola Schools will generate over 850,000 kWh each year, and gather over 90 percent of its energy while North Arkansas Electric Cooperative will provide the rest of VSD’s energy needs. Engineering and Geo-technical work is currently underway, and construction of the site is schedule to start in by the end of the year.

According to TPI President, Michael Henderson, “Investing in local communities gives viola schools and the community a direct benefit as a resource to students to learn about the technology of renewable energy. Parents and students should be proud of the desire and leadership of the Viola School Board to lead progressive education initiatives such as this solar facility.”