The Oregon University System (“OUS”) is undertaking a large-scale solar photovoltaic power program for all of its campuses, beginning with this groundbreaking at OIT, called “Solar By Degrees”. This project will be the largest solar photovoltaic system in the state of Oregon and the largest multiple campus, university system-based contract for solar energy in the nation. The projects will utilize Oregon companies’ solar materials and employ Oregon labor.
Initially beginning at three campuses – Oregon Institute of Technology, Oregon State University, and Eastern Oregon University – this phase of the project will place 27 acres of ground-based solar panels producing almost 5 megawatts of solar generation at these campuses, with construction to begin this summer and fall. OIT will be the first public university in the nation to combine its current geothermal generation with new solar capacity, producing all of its electricity and heat needs.
Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber and other leaders will speak, break ground on the site, and tour the OIT geothermal plant. Public tours of Geothermal Power Plant will be provided following the ceremony.
