A note from Alpha Energy:

Whitman College in Walla Walla, WA recently hired The Alpha Group, Alpha Energy to install a 21kW solar power system to be commissioned on October 3.

“It is exciting to see educational institutions getting involved in renewable energy projects like this,” said Drew Zogby, President and COO of Alpha Technologies. “By showing their own commitment to going green, Whitman College is leading by example and encouraging their students to follow the same path. By providing Whitman with high quality system design, installation and innovative monitoring systems, Alpha Energy is demonstrating our own commitment to the best at what we do. This turnkey system is something Whitman and their students can be proud of.”

The 2,500 sq. ft. rooftop installation includes 120 photovoltaic panels, and is one of the largest solar arrays in Walla Walla County and in the Washington territories of Pacific Power and Light (PPL) company. The system will generate an estimated 25,000 kWhs annually, which constitutes about 20% of the Bratton Tennis Center’s power needs. A solar monitoring station will be located on the first floor of the Hall of Science allowing students and the general public to monitor the system’s output.

“The educational aspect of the project is a vital component,” said Bob Carson, Grace Farnsworth Phillips professor of geology and environmental studies. “And Whitman is ideally suited to educate members of the Whitman and Walla Walla communities about the importance of alternative energy solutions. This project shows students and community members that what needs to done, can be done. It’s a public acknowledgement that we can’t continue to get all of our power from fossil fuels, because we do have alternative energy solutions.”

The monitoring Web site for the system is currently online, and an official dedication of the solar panels will be held Saturday, Oct 3, at 3:30 p.m. in Kimball Theatre, Hunter Conservatory.