La Salle Catholic College Preparatory in Milwaukie, Oregon, has installed one of the largest solar photovoltaic systems in the state of Oregon in expectation that it will eventually cover 10-15% of the school’s energy needs at an estimated cost savings of $10,000 per year. The system began operation in January 2010.

The project is a key component of La Salle’s commitment to sustainable practices, reducing its carbon footprint and conserving natural resources. In part, this is a response to the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Themes of Catholic Social Teaching that instructs us to respond to environmental challenges in responsible ways.

Beyond the benefit to the environment, La Salle sees this project as a learning opportunity for students. They will be given opportunities to evaluate the effectiveness of the system, debate the options of government incentives, and conduct science projects based on the system.