The 5 MW Chippewa Sun solar system is forwarding clean, renewable energy growth in Wisconsin’s Chippewa Valley. The local utility purchases the electricity from the facility to support the three subscribing partners, The Sonnentag – University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire’s multi-purpose arena, real estate and community development company Pablo Group and the nearby City of Eau Claire.
The Chippewa Sun project reflects the power of effective partnership in clean energy proliferation. Standard Solar serves as long-term owner and operator, and the system was built by developer OneEnergy Renewables and builder Hunt Electric on land purchased by SolarShare Wisconsin Cooperative.
The array generates 10 million kWh per year for its subscribing partners. UW-Eau Claire is the largest subscriber to Chippewa Sun, and the energy generated by the system offsets 100% of the electricity used at The Sonnentag. “UW-Eau Claire is proud The Sonnentag has become a shining example of sustainability,” UW-Eau Claire Chancellor James Schmidt said. “The Sonnentag is the largest LEED Gold Certified recreational center in the nation operated by a public university. John and Carolyn Sonnentag, our students and our community partners came together to make this dream a reality.”
Standard Solar’s expertise in solar project ownership and operations is ensuring the success of the Chippewa Sun system over many years. The array supports both Wisconsin’s broader carbon-free energy commitments and its subscribers’ sustainability goals.
“Chippewa Sun is an exciting step forward in Eau Claire’s commitment to clean energy and sustainability,” said Emily Berge, Council President, City of Eau Claire. “Through this partnership, we can offset electricity use at several city buildings, including City Hall and the water treatment plant, helping us reach our renewable energy goals outlined in the Renewable Energy Action Plan (REAP). Investing in projects like this supports local economic development and strengthens our community’s role in the clean energy transition — without the challenges of owning and maintaining on-site infrastructure.”
“Reducing the environmental impact of the SpringHill Suites by Marriott during the design phase was a top priority for the Pablo Group. These efforts along with subscribing to this solar array ensure the operations of the hotel will be more sustainable,” said Julia Johnson, Co-Founder, Pablo Group.
