A Solar Success
In late September, the Harris Center moved to 100% solar electricity by adding two solar ground mounts in a sunny patch behind our building. These state-of-the-art panels are bifacial, which means they can absorb energy both from the sky and as reflected from the ground (ideal for snowy winters!). The panels are also adjustable, and can be angled for optimal sunlight exposure throughout the changing seasons. The new system — which was designed and installed by South Pack Solar, a longtime Harris Center Business Partner — is expected to produce 10,000 kWh of electricity annually. When combined with the roof-mounted panels that were installed on our building in 2018, this should cover our electricity use now and for a long time to come.
This project was made possible by a generous bequest from the estate of Stuart Williams. Heartfelt thanks to Stuart for a gift that will continue giving well into the future.
An aerial view of the site plan showing the new Open Lodge (low-center), the existing Harris Center building (upper right), and new hardscaped pathways between the two.
A rendering of the interior of the Open Lodge.