Solar power initiative in Indianapolis school district will install panels at 20 schools

The project would reduce district energy costs by an estimated $45 million over the next 30 years.

June 20, 2022

The Indianapolis school board has approved a plan to install solar panels at 20 campuses.

The district's agreement with Sun FundED calls for the firm to develop, finance and operate solar energy systems for the district. The project would reduce energy costs in Indianapolis schools by an estimated $45 million over the next 30 years, the district says.

In addition to the solar installations, the project would also enable the district to incorporate renewable energy and sustainability programs in the classroom through SAMI, a digital platform intended to help students understand the financial and technical aspects of solar energy.

Based on the initial 20 buildings, it’s estimated that first-year savings for the district would be more than $120,000. Those savings are estimated to increase to $22 million by year 25, and $40 million by year 30.