Editor’s Note: In 2020, SunPower announced the completion of the strategic spin-off of its manufacturing division into a separate business named Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. As a result, SunPower has expanded its offerings to drive future growth. The SunPower Equinox® system now offers multiple panel options, including front- and back-contact panels, all of which are responsibly and rigorously quality tested to provide the best energy solution for your home.
SunPower holds decades of experience supporting educational institutions in various parts of the nation. From generating utility savings through high efficiency solar installations to providing STEM-based curriculum for both students and teachers, we’ve found that supporting education is a major step in changing how our world is powered. That’s because reaching today’s generation with cleaner energy initiatives sets the stage for a more sustainable future. Here are four ways that SunPower is actively working with schools to help them pass with flying colors.
SunPower installations help schools save big
Whether you look east or west, you’ll find schools across America sporting highly efficient solar panels from SunPower. That’s because many educational facilities have discovered that solar energy can help them save some serious cash. The Solar Foundation reported that 5.5% of the nation’s K-12 schools run on solar power and the demand has doubled in the past few years. Solar energy helps reduce utility costs, freeing up capital that schools can better use to support teachers and invest in curriculum. Mount Diablo Unified School District in California is a prime example, saving an estimated $3 million a year on electricity with their SunPower® rooftop panels and solar carports. Those accumulated funds help power a robust art program – one of the district’s claims to fame.
SunPower Horizons® program provides STEM-based curriculum
While many districts love raking in the savings from their solar systems, we’ve heard just as much praise for the learning environment that an installation on site inspires. It’s what lead us to create the SunPower Horizons® Solar Education program. The program is designed to spark students’ curiosity in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) all while promoting clean, renewable energy at the same time. Educators are given professional development opportunities for the chance to fully understand and teach solar technology along with the career opportunities that follow it. But the curriculum isn’t just available within the classroom, interactive field trips and solar power projects allow students to develop work-ready skills through engaging alternative energy education. To date, 30,300+ students and more than 59 districts have already experienced this hands-on educational opportunity.
SunPower donates to educational non-profits
Once in a blue moon, SunPower has had an excess number of solar panels on its hands. But these solar panels don’t go to waste, instead they help serve as learning opportunities. NC GreenPower is one institution that has put them to good use. Their goal to add 5 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to North Carolina schools throughout the state’s 100 counties is quickly becoming a reality. To date, 34 schools and counting now host a SunPower solar system that is used to as a STEM-based teaching aide.
SunPower has also worked with organizations like Twende Solar in the past to provide solar power teaching kits for areas that need it most.
SunPower offers a teacher discount
We’ve all had that one teacher that inspired us to dream bigger. It is these educators that encourage young minds to think outside of the box and make the world a better place. That continuous service to the community is priceless and it is what inspired us to create the Teacher Alliance Program. SunPower wants to give back to those who have given so much. That’s why any educator who purchases a qualifying SunPower solar system will be eligible to receive a $750 VISA reward card rebate.*Before rebate costs will vary, depending on system specifications. Only valid on select SunPower Equinox systems with A-Series panels, including 530111 SPR-A400-G-AC, 533921 SPR-A410-G-AC, 530110 SPR-A415-G-AC, 534228 SPR-A420-G-AC with a minimum system size of 2.8kW. Rebate cannot be combined with any other SunPower offer. Only available for new, first-time SunPower customers, excluding customers who purchase a new home with solar installed or customers who purchase/lease solar for a different property they own. Rebate may not be applied to quotes on existing SunPower proposals or past purchases. The Solar Rebate Form at sunpowerrebate.com must be completed and submitted within 90 days of installation date. Rebate Forms submitted without proper documentation and signatures will be subject to delays and/or cancellation. LATE SUBMISSIONS WILL NOT BE PROCESSED. Please allow 3 to 7 weeks for processing. Other terms and conditions apply. Void where prohibited. Reward Card: SunPower Visa Reward Card issued by The Bancorp Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Reward Card expires six months from the date of issuance. Reward Card is subject to The Bancorp Bank's terms, restrictions, and conditions, available at: https://www.thebancorp.com/support/fisgift/terms/ . The Reward Card is not redeemable for cash. This promotion is not sponsored by or endorsed by The Bancorp Bank or Visa. With this program, teachers will have the opportunity to experience savings on their electricity bills while using the world’s best solar. So, thank a teacher by passing this information on because it just might be the jumpstart they’ve been waiting on.
