Two years ago OVS launched an ambitious solar project that has significantly advanced the school’s sustainability goals. The project includes 1,001 photovoltaic panels that cover 19,016 square feet of hillsides and rooftops at the Upper Campus. Launched in 2013 with HelioPower and Southern California Edison, the project was designed to supply 85% of the electrical demand for the Upper Campus, saving more than $64,000 a year in energy costs and reducing the school’s annual carbon footprint by an estimated 299,000 pounds. With planned additional energy efficiency measures and greater conservation awareness, the school hopes to move close to 100% renewable energy in coming years.
In addition to solar, here are additional ways OVS teaches and demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability:
• PK-12 environmental education in classes and activities
• Comprehensive recycling programs
• Retrofitted lights with energy-efficient bulbs and fixtures
• Water-efficient irrigation systems and plumbing
• Drought-tolerant and native plantings
• Non-chemical fertilizers, pesticides and cleaning products
• State-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant at Upper Campus
• Partnering with local farmers in our dining halls to provide local produce and growing vegetables in the school’s own gardens
Photo by Peter Chang, Class of 2015