Midwest Solar Power

Duke Energy supported two educational energy projects in Cincinnati and Kentucky in their efforts to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards by donating solar photovoltaic systems. 

The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden’s Education Center and the Kenton County (Kentucky) School’s Twenhofel Middle School received support from Duke Energy for the installation of 20-kilowatt photovoltaic systems, which serve as a learning source for renewable energy for the school children in our region. The LEED standards award project points based on energy efficiency, water conservation and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Duke Energy has also installed photovoltaic systems at Indiana schools to raise awareness of solar power among future generations. The photovoltaic systems are connected to Duke Energy power lines and capable of producing about 2,000 kilowatt-hours a year.

Each system serves as a hands-on demonstration of solar energy at work. Using a computerized performance monitoring station, students can monitor the amount of electricity as it is generated as well as weather conditions affecting power production.