F&M College Supports Keystone Solar Project
Article from "The Diplomat: Franklin & Marshall's online newsletter"
Representatives from Community Energy Inc. visited Franklin & Marshall last week to recognize the College for its support of the largest utility-scale solar project in Pennsylvania. The ceremony took place during the weekly Fair Trade Café lunch in the Wohlsen Center for the Sustainable Environment on Oct. 12.
F&M recently became the first retail customer in Pennsylvania to commit to buying renewable energy credits from the “Keystone Solar Project,” which Community Energy will build in East Drumore Township, Lancaster County, next year. The 6-megawatt, ground-mounted solar farm will produce 7,500 megawatt hours of electricity annually—the equivalent of powering 950 homes each year.
Renewable energy credits, also known as "green tags," represent the environmental and economic value of one megawatt hour of electricity produced from renewable energy sources.
“This is exciting for F&M because it gives us the ability to invest in green energy locally,” says Maria Cimilluca, associate vice president for facilities management and campus planning. “Franklin & Marshall has been working for many years to support sustainable energy solutions. Because the Keystone Solar Project is a local endeavor, it is a huge opportunity for the community as well as F&M to jump on board now.”
The solar project has earned the College a “Green Power: Turn it On” award from Citizens for Pennsylvania’s future (PennFuture). The PennFuture awards recognize individuals and organizations for their work in promoting clean energy in Pennsylvania each year.
F&M has been purchasing wind-generated renewable energy credits from Community Energy since 2002. The campus has undertaken numerous other initiatives relating to sustainability and environmental stewardship over the past decade, including energy efficiency programs, the construction of five “green” roofs, the introduction of a composting program and the use of bio-fuels.
Additionally, the College has introduced sustainability-themed programming through the Sustainability House, Environmental Action Alliance and Wohlsen Center. The Sustainability Task Force, comprising students and members of the faculty and professional staff, is also nearing completion of a draft of F&M’s Sustainability Master Plan.
Chris Karlesky with the "The Diplomat" and can be reached at (717) 291-3836 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .