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Santee Cooper and Clemson University partnership to bring solar energy and energy efficiency to campus

Santee Cooper and Clemson University partnership to bring solar energy and energy efficiency to campus

MONCKS CORNER, S.C. (Mar. 14, 2006) -Santee Cooper, the state-owned utility, has entered into a partnership with Clemson University to implement solar energy technology at the Flour-Daniel Engineering Innovation Building (EIB) and in addition, the use of on campus state-of-the-art-energy efficiency technology.

This partnership is part of the implementation of Santee Cooper’s next phase of a multi-tiered renewable resource generation plan which includes the use of solar energy.

The project includes a 15kW photovoltaic solar array that will supply electricity to the campus grid. Hands on PV technology learning modules for engineering students are a part of the project and tours for all education levels throughout the community will be available. An interactive internet based information system will make the educational possibilities almost endless to the public and other educational institutions.

The energy efficiency component includes the installation of new variable frequency drives to be installed on 15 air handlers that will substantially reduce electric energy usage in several low average occupancy areas that include auditoriums, atriums, and gymnasiums. The systems will be demand actuated, meaning that sensors will detect when the areas are occupied and adjust the settings accordingly. All systems will be on Direct Digital Control to implement the complex programming required. The estimated campus energy savings is over $93,000 annually.

Jeff Hinson, director of utility service for Clemson, said, “Only a handful of PV projects exist in South Carolina, so we are happy to partner with Santee Cooper to demonstrate the technology and stimulate interest in science and technology. The energy-saving technology helps us reduce our costs and increases comfort in the affected areas. The entire project is a win-win for everyone.”

Santee Cooper entered the arena of Green Power in 2001, being the first electric utility in South Carolina to offer electricity which is made from renewable resources, like solar, wind and decomposing garbage in landfills. “Our interest in renewable power generation reflects our progressive stance on protecting the environment, delivering quality products and services to our customers and adding value to the state,” said Carter.

Santee Cooper recently announced a five-year, statewide, multi-tiered renewable resource plan:

* Solar projects at state universities and in various South Carolina regions
* Potential wind demonstration projects
* Continuation of landfills across South Carolina

Clemson University is a part of the Sustainable Universities Initiative. The S.C. Sustainable Universities Initiative (SUI) was created in 1998 and member schools pledge to cooperate in leading the way toward a more sustainable future through teaching, research, community service and facilities management. To date, 13 four-year and technical schools have joined. SUI serves as a catalyst for activities that will make the universities and other educational institutions, and ultimately, the state as a whole, more sustainable.

Santee Cooper is South Carolina's state-owned electric and water utility and serves 148,000 residential and commercial customers in Berkeley, Georgetown and Horry counties. The utility also generates the power distributed by the state's 20 electric cooperatives, reaching more than 650,000 customers in all 46 counties. Nearly 2 million South Carolinians receive their power directly or indirectly from Santee Cooper. For more information, visit www.santeecooper.com

Laura G. Varn
Corporate Communications
(843) 761-4133
lgvarn@santeecooper.com Robin Denny
News Services
(864) 656-2061
robin.denny@clemsonews.clemson.edu