Lehigh University’s on-site solar array project is now operational. The project began construction in December 2022 and was completed in the summer of 2024. With the addition of this project, Lehigh has addressed 100% of its electricity consumption with Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) derived from a combination of off-site and on-site renewable energy projects. With the completion of these two emissions reduction projects, Lehigh has made a significant step towards its goal of achieving net carbon neutrality by 2040.
Lehigh has a standing commitment to becoming a model sustainable campus, as outlined in its Sustainability Strategic Plan 2030 and Climate Action Strategy. Lehigh’s Climate Action Strategy identifies a “Pathway to Zero” emissions for the university to achieve net carbon neutrality by 2040.
"We are proud to announce this significant milestone in our journey toward carbon neutrality. By implementing the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and installing our on-site solar array, we are taking important steps to reduce our net carbon emissions,” said President Joseph J. Helble '82. "These initiatives underscore our ongoing commitment to making a difference by addressing society's most important challenges today."
The on-campus solar array, one of the plan’s key elements, will enable the university to save money, reduce emissions, and be more energy efficient. The project supplies more than 100% of the electrical power needs of the Goodman Campus and offsets 8% of Lehigh’s grid electricity consumption. The array will provide critical research and hands-on learning opportunities for students—preparing them to join the long tradition of Lehigh future makers as today’s sustainability leaders.
The EDF Saucon Valley's Solar Dashboard provides a transparent view of the current and historical energy production of the on-campus solar array. The dashboard gives real-time insights into the solar array’s performance and showcases several energy-generated equivalencies, as well as a concise explanation for how solar energy works.
"By providing students with experiential learning opportunities, we are equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to address the challenges of climate change and build a more resilient world,” said Audrey McSain, Sustainability Director. “While we have a long way to achieve net carbon neutrality, these opportunities take us a step closer to our end goal, fostering a generation of informed and empowered citizens who can lead the charge toward a sustainable future."
Lehigh University partnered with Standard Solar, who acquired the project from EDF Renewables North America in 2023, to develop and install the solar array on a portion of the Murray H. Goodman Campus. Standard Solar, a Brookfield Renewable company that is powering the nation’s energy transformation, designed and financed the project and is now responsible for its operation and maintenance.
“As a long-term employee of Standard Solar who grew up in this part of Pennsylvania, I am proud to be a part of this project to contribute to Lehigh University’s commitment to carbon neutrality,” said Eric Partyka, director of business development at Standard Solar. “We look forward to serving this great institution moving forward in the hopes of inspiring more sustainable development in the community.”
The site for the solar array was strategically chosen. Goodman Campus, which includes the majority of the university’s athletic and event facilities, is used by students, staff, faculty, and the community. The solar array is 2.63-megawatt (MW) and is located just south of Legacy Park and opposite the Lewis Indoor Tennis Center, relative to the existing power infrastructure. In the surrounding area, between the field and the nearest residential community, new landscaping was created with a variety of plant species to establish a rich backdrop to the existing yards.
