Lehigh University Advances Sustainability with 3.1 MW Solar Project, Ensuring Long-Term Clean Energy Leadership

Lehigh University, a prestigious private research institution in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, sought to advance its sustainability initiatives and reduce its carbon footprint. Standard Solar partnered with the university to develop, finance, own, and operate a 3.1-megawatt (MW) solar array on campus, providing a reliable source of clean energy without requiring upfront capital investment from the university.

“This solar installation is a critical step in our Pathway to Zero as outlined in our Climate Action Strategy,” said Joseph J. Helble, Lehigh’s President. “By investing in on-site renewable energy, we are not only reducing emissions but also providing valuable learning opportunities for our students.”

Project Details

  • Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
  • System Size: 3.1 MW
  • Annual Energy Production: 4,956 MWh
  • CO2 Offset: Equivalent to removing 777 cars from the road annually
  • Ownership & Financing: Standard Solar fully financed, owns, and operates the system

Standard Solar’s Role

Standard Solar brought extensive experience in solar project development, financing, and long-term asset management to ensure the success of this project. By leveraging its financial resources and technical expertise, Standard Solar enabled Lehigh University to incorporate renewable energy into its campus infrastructure without bearing the costs or complexities of ownership and maintenance.

From project inception to completion, Standard Solar worked closely with Lehigh University to deliver a seamless solution that aligns with the institution’s sustainability goals. The fully financed system allows the university to benefit from solar energy immediately while maintaining focus on its core educational mission.

Impact & Benefits

  • Cost-Effective Clean Energy: Through Standard Solar’s ownership model, Lehigh University can access renewable energy without any financial burden.
  • Environmental Leadership: The 3.1 MW solar array generates nearly 5,000 MWh annually, significantly reducing the university’s reliance on fossil fuels.
  • Educational Opportunities: The project serves as a valuable educational tool, offering students real-world insights into renewable energy solutions and sustainability initiatives.
  • Long-Term Reliability: With Standard Solar managing operations and maintenance, Lehigh University is assured of optimal system performance for years to come.

A Strong Partnership for a Sustainable Future

By partnering with Standard Solar, Lehigh University has taken a bold step toward achieving its carbon neutrality goals by 2040. This collaboration exemplifies how higher education institutions can integrate clean energy into their long-term sustainability strategies with the right solar partner.

As a leader in solar project development and financing, Standard Solar continues to support organizations like Lehigh University in their transition to renewable energy. To learn more about how Standard Solar can help your institution achieve its sustainability goals, visit www.standardsolar.com.