PATOKA — The design and installation of a new solar PV system for the Patoka Community Unit School District 100 has been awarded to a St. Louis, Missouri company.

The system will generate approximately 480,000 kilowatts of power per year.

Upon installation, the solar PV system will cover approximately 1.25 acres and consist of 990 modules, generating enough electricity to offset 44 residential utility customers.

Patoka School will recognize savings of greater than $23,000 per year or $582,000 over 25 years, which will allow the school district to offset 85% of its energy consumption with solar PV (photovoltaic). The project is scheduled to be completed in early 2020.

Patoka CUSD 100 is receiving funds through the Adjustable Block Program which is established by the Illinois Future Energy Jobs Act of 2017 to install a solar PV system. The school district captured $247,569 of incentives known as Solar Renewable Energy Certificates.

On days where solar exceeds the school demand, Patoka CUSD 100 will receive energy credits to apply towards future energy bills through Illinois Net Metering policies.

Pakota Superintendent David Rademacher comments that “Patoka CUSD 100 is excited about the solar installation and is looking forward to energy savings.

Patoka is also thrilled to be increasing environmental stewardship, quality of life for students, teachers, and staff, and a progressive movement toward becoming less dependent on traditional sources of power.”