Paired Power and Santa Clara University are teaming up to deliver direct clean energy to the university’s maintenance fleet and other electric vehicles for the first time.
Paired Power installed two PairTree solar electric vehicle (EV) chargers on the grounds of Santa Clara University. Unlike typical EV chargers that are powered by the electricity grid, these draw their power entirely from clean solar energy. The installations mark an important step toward SCU’s ambitious goals to reduce carbon pollution beyond traditional measures such as behavior change campaigns in residence halls and lighting upgrades in campus buildings.
“This installation is an important facet of our climate action work,” said Sean Collins, assistant VP of university operations at Santa Clara University. “By integrating Paired Power’s solar EV chargers into our operations, we are not only generating renewable energy to charge our fleet, but we are also modeling for our students how an organization can take responsibility for reducing CO2 pollution.”
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Santa Clara University has long been a leader in sustainability and environmental stewardship. The installation of Paired Power’s PairTree solar EV chargers aligns with SCU’s energy goals to reduce energy consumption through savings and efficiency, and install a more self-sufficient energy system; making purchased energy CO2-free and improving sustainable transport options.
The PairTree chargers are a fully integrated solar roof system that combines solar energy with available grid power and battery storage to charge electric vehicles. With wind speeds of up to 210 km/h and low-maintenance design, PairTrees are built for durability in a variety of environments, such as extreme or unpredictable weather conditions. The system can provide reliable EV charging and energy storage around the clock, making it an ideal solution for SCU’s fleet of electric maintenance vehicles and equipment.
“We are excited to partner with Santa Clara University in their journey to become a model of energy independence,” said Tom McCalmont, CEO of Paired Power, who previously served on SCU’s Engineering Advisory Board. “Our PairTree chargers provide a resilient solution that harnesses the power of the sun while reducing the University’s dependence on the fossil fuel grid, while providing a perfect model of how forward-thinking institutions can take advantage of solar technology to achieve their sustainability goals That is important for both students and stakeholders.”
The chargers featured rapid one-day installation, no-excavation installation and a unique bifacial panel design that captures both direct and reflected light from the sun and pavement to maximize energy yield.
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