Catholic Elementary Applies Green Design - Tracking to be America's 1st Existing 'Net-Zero' Energy School...

2009 - Wilmington, California:
Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Elementary school's recently installed solar-electric system on the gymnasium roof is designed to produce two-thirds of the school's electricity needs.  Energy-efficiency measures, including a high-efficiency lighting upgrade, will achieve the goal of becoming America's first existing school complex retrofitted to achieve net-zero electricity usage. 

"Start by doing what is necessary, then do what is possible and suddenly you are doing the impossible."  St. Francis of Assisi  

What is a Net Zero Energy School?

A 'Net-Zero' energy school means the physical school plant has a renewable energy source on site, producing energy and feeding a utility grid. On an annual basis, 100 percent of the energy consumed by the building is returned to the utility grid.  At Saints Peter and Paul Elementary, the renewable energy source is solar photovoltaics.

How does it work? 

During the year, the school buys electricity from Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and also sends electricity back into the power grid of surrounding communities.  At the end of the year, the school will have consumed 'Net-Zero' kilowatt-hours. 

Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Elementary includes a strong academic program.  Wilmington and South Bay business leaders are encouraged, invited, and requested to financially support upgrading the school's Science & Technology Program.  Needs: computers, Science curriculum update, and physical plant renovation.