Dairyland is expanding its "Solar for Schools" renewable energy and education initiative through a new collaboration with Western Technical College. A solar generation project is being brought online at Western’s Independence campus, where a ribbon-cutting event was held on Oct. 7.

“We are delighted to partner on a project that will assist in the education and training of the workforce well into the future,” said Brian Rude, Dairyland Vice President, External and Member Relations. “In addition to ensuring that students will continually train on new technology, this solar array will help hold down Western’s energy costs at the Independence location.”

The solar project will provide instructional opportunities and generate renewable energy for the campus facility. Four photovoltaic solar arrays feature 36 panels. Western staff will be able to monitor the total and hourly output, the environmental benefits delivered, temperatures, voltage and power metrics. Students in programs related to electronics and energy management will use this data as part of their curriculum and will learn the basics of solar installation and maintenance.