Vista Solar Helps Leyva Middle School Earn Net-Zero Energy Distinction

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Leyva Middle School's 36kW solar system artfully integrated into the building's architecture.

It’s great to know that because of systems like this [Leyva], renewable energy will be the norm for this generation of kids growing up

San Jose, CA (PRWEB) June 14, 2012

With help from Vista Solar, George V. Leyva Middle School, a California Distinguished School and National Exemplary School, now has California’s first net-zero energy public school structure.

Since its inception in 1973, George V. Leyva Middle School has been a leader in middle school academics, becoming a California Distinguished School and National Exemplary School. Now, with the help of local commercial solar installation company, Vista Solar, the school has added the distinction of running California’s first net-zero energy public school structure.

Working with their Architects and Specialists, like local solar firm Vista Solar, the District not only met the stringent California Title 24 energy efficiency requirements, but surpassed them by an astounding 41%. What little energy that is used by the new Administration Building is now offset by the 36kW solar installation artfully integrated into the buildings recessed architecture. The combination of leading-edge energy efficiency and onsite clean renewable energy generation makes the new building California’s first net-zero energy public school structure.

A flat screen monitor mounted in the Administration Building lobby is tied to a state-of-the-art energy management system designed by Schneider Electric as well as real time data demonstrating the solar system energy generation. School personnel can see energy consumption and generation data down to the individual breakers in the electrical panels – making continued energy management a breeze.

Doing their part to ensure a cleaner environment for the student’s futures was a key motivator for the District’s decision to “go green”. The solar system alone will offset approximately 80,000 pounds of C02 emissions every year – setting a clear example of environmental stewardship for the students and local community. “It’s great to know that because of systems like this [Leyva], renewable energy will be the norm for this generation of kids growing up” said Jaymes Callinan, Vice President of Vista Solar.

In addition, the solar installation will generate at least $9,900 in electricity bill savings for the school. With the rising cost of electricity in the State, the savings generated over the lifetime of the system will translate to over $480,000 in funds that can be reallocated towards the large variety of extra-curricular programs the school provides for their students.

About Leyva Middle School
George V. Leyva Middle School is located in San Jose, CA and has been a leader in middle school academics, extra-curricular activities and multicultural programs since its inception in 1973. Leyva Middle School is a National Exemplary School, a California Distinguished School, and more recently given the title of a Title 1 Academic Achieving School. (http://leyva.schoolloop.com)

About Vista Solar Inc.
Vista Solar is an award-winning solar design and installation firm serving the commercial and agricultural markets throughout California. Vista Solar offers $0-down financing solutions that allow organizations and businesses to save money on their utility bills without any capital outlay. There is one fundamental principle driving the culture of Vista Solar - our job isn’t complete until each customer is reference-able. (http://www.vista-solar.com)

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