When complete, the installation will consist of 160 solar panels located on the high school gymnasium roof.
"The new solar installation is part of Byron’s long-term commitment to educational excellence, sustainability and cost-effective operations,” said Byron CUSD 226 Superintendent, Dr. James Hammack. “Solar gives us the ability to produce our own power without pollution and to lower our long-term operating costs.”
The solar photovoltaic system is part of several energy-focused building improvements occurring during the summer of 2017. Byron CUSD 226 officials are working with Fanning Howey to improve heating and thermal storage systems at the high school and to add electronic controls to the middle school.
“Byron CUSD 226 has made an excellent investment,” says Tim Lehman, PE, LEED AP, director of Mechanical engineering for Fanning Howey. “We project that these improvements will pay for themselves in less than 10 years. Students will also enjoy classrooms that are more comfortable and education-friendly.”
The Byron CUSD 226 Board of Education approved bids for the project on April 25, 2017. Construction is currently underway, with all work scheduled to be complete by November 2017.
About Byron CUSD #226
The mission of Byron Community Unit School District #226 is to develop community-minded 21st Century learners. The School District is committed to providing students and their families with the highest-quality educational experiences and outcomes through the implementation of a visionary and innovative curriculum, employment of a knowledgeable and dedicated staff, and the execution of sound fiscal and management practices. Byron CUSD 226 educates nearly 1,500 students in three buildings: Mary Morgan Elementary School, Byron Middle School and Byron High School.
About Fanning Howey
Located in Oak Brook, Ill., Fanning Howey is a national leader in the design of energy-efficient learning environments. The architecture, engineering and planning firm serves educational communities throughout Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and across the nation. Fanning Howey is the only architecture and engineering firm to ever receive an ENERGY STAR Part of the Year – Sustained Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. For more information, visit www.fhai.com.