Solar Classroom
Designed with safety and functionality in mind, the outdoor solar classroom is constructed of a poured concrete base, 200-AC photovoltaic modules that form the roof, and reinforced steel beams that support the entire structure. Each solar module has an integrated micro inverter allowing each panel to individually produce energy at its maximum efficiency. An online monitoring system gives the students an up to date view of every module’s power production and translates the output in real-world equivalents such as gallons of gas, trees, and carbon emissions saved. The pavilion’s concrete slab base doubles as a giant game board – another opportunity to teach students about the alternative energy and ecological responsibility – and a few algebra and science skills along the way. The solar classroom comes with child friendly furnishings and is painted to support school colors. The structure can be shared with the rest of the community to support field trips from other schools or to provide a gathering place for groups and families.