Embedded Files
Solar Power Back-Up System
Solar Power Back-Up System
In Fall of 2026, the R&D team developed a solar panel back-up system to then set on table tops and engage students with during Climate Week. A solar panel back-up system includes a main solar power that generates energy flowing in a direct current. This energy then passes into a battery to be stored for later usage. When power is needed, a laptop or such can be plugged into the inverter where the direct current is transformed into alternating current.
Maize Rays Engagement
Maize Rays Engagement
Ongoing project from 2025 where--in collaboration with Office of Campus Sustainability, Radial Power, and student org EcoData--a website and a number of small, interactive solar installations are developed to inform people about the Maize Rays Solar initiative where 25MW of rooftop and carport solar are installed around the Ann Arbor, Flint, and Dearborn campuses.
Revolving Energy Fund
Revolving Energy Fund
In 2018, we drafted a proposal for UM to establish a revolving energy fund (REF). A REF provides financing for energy efficiency upgrades, which in turn generate savings that are reinvested in the fund. Excitingly, in Spring 2021, UM announced that it will be investing $25 million over the next 5 years to kickstart its REF!
Solar Block M
Solar Block M
Since 2018, we have been working to secure the installation of an 'M'-shaped solar array on UM's North Campus. If constructed, the Solar Block M would visually represent UM's commitment to carbon neutrality and provide faculty with real-time solar energy data to integrate into their classrooms and research.
Ann Arbor Fire Station Solar
Ann Arbor Fire Station Solar
In 2019, we collaborated with the City of Ann Arbor to install a 52-kilowatt photovoltaic system on the roof of AA Fire Station Six.
Wind Power Purchase Agreement Proposal
Wind Power Purchase Agreement Proposal
In 2018, we wrote a proposal for UM to procure renewable electricity from wind installations in "The Thumb" of Michigan. Subsequently, in 2019, UM signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with DTE Energy to buy 200,000 MWh of wind-generated electricity each year--nearly half of its annual demand.
Solar-Powered Charging Stations
Solar-Powered Charging Stations
In 2017, we spearheaded the installation of two picnic tables equipped with solar-powered charging stations. One table was installed near Palmer Commons, while the other was installed on UM's North Campus.
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