The Catholic University of America added a solar array on 25 acres of previously undeveloped land at its West Campus. 

The project was developed in collaboration with Standard Solar and is estimated to save 7.115 metric tons of GHG emissions annually, according to a statement. 

The solar facility is set to produce 7.5 megawatts-DC/6 megawatts-AC of renewable energy, benefitting both the campus and the local community.

The solar array is the region’s largest urban ground-mounted solar array and contributes to the District’s goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2032 and carbon neutrality by 2050. The 20-year projected savings to D.C. subscribers are estimated at $3.5 million. 

“The project will provide locally generated, renewable energy to our campus, and local residents and businesses,” said University President Peter Kilpatrick in a recent letter to the community. “The array will save an estimated 7.115 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year, and contribute to Mayor Muriel Bowser’s goals to make Washington, D.C. carbon-neutral and climate resilient by 2050.”

The University currently has 2,600 solar panels located throughout the main and north campuses and 677 kW of installed capacity, with locations including Aquinas Hall, Flather Hall, Gibbons Hall, Pangborn Hall, the DuFour Center, the Grounds, the Maintenance Building and the O’Boyle Parking Lot.