South Dakota Mines has energized its first-ever solar installation, marking a milestone in the university's commitment to renewable energy and innovation in STEM education. Located at the Vanderboom Laboratory for Entrepreneurial Research building on campus, the new solar array features an 87.2 kW DC system comprised of 160 solar modules and state-of-the-art inverters. The system is designed to deliver significant energy savings while serving as a model for sustainability and providing real-time data for student courses and projects.
This project was made possible through the combined expertise of GenPro Energy Development and GenPro Energy Solutions. GenPro Energy Development initiated the project with a comprehensive feasibility study, ensuring a technically and financially sound foundation. GenPro Energy Solutions, recognized for excellence in solar engineering, procurement, and construction, delivered the installation to the highest standards.
Jerilyn Roberts, Vice President of Operations at Mines, stated that the university had been exploring solar options for many years. The Vanderboom Laboratory building was selected due to its ample roof space and the return on investment needed to allow state energy funds to be used as matching funds. Roberts emphasized that the solar installation will enable the campus to use real-time data from the solar panels in student courses and projects, enhancing hands-on learning opportunities.
Molly Brown, Managing Partner of GenPro Energy Development, noted that their feasibility analysis ensured the project was grounded in technical and financial best practices. Brown added that GenPro Energy Solutions then delivered a high-quality installation that brings this vision to life for South Dakota Mines and the greater Rapid City community.
The solar installation is expected to reduce campus energy costs and carbon emissions, supporting the university's goal of environmental stewardship. This collaborative project demonstrates the power of local expertise and innovation in advancing clean energy solutions for South Dakota. The initiative serves as a practical example of how educational institutions can integrate renewable energy infrastructure while creating valuable educational resources for students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
For the broader community and region, this project establishes a replicable model for solar feasibility and implementation. It showcases how technical analysis and quality construction can combine to create sustainable energy solutions that provide both economic and educational benefits. The installation's data collection capabilities will allow students to engage with live energy production metrics, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application in renewable energy systems.
