Chevron Energy Solutions Solar Installation at Santa Cruz County Office of Education Goes Live

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Jan. 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Santa Cruz County Office of Education and Chevron Energy Solutions today announced completion of a solar installation and energy efficiency improvements expected to reduce both carbon emissions and energy costs, saving more than $2 million over the program's life.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130117/CG41183)

"We believe this project has the potential to significantly reduce our operating expenses in an environmentally beneficial way," said County Superintendent of Schools Michael Watkins. "Those funds can now be used to support educational opportunities that directly impact our county's students, and help us in our mission of providing resources to prepare the next generation for success in 21^st century industries and global economies."

The project, located at the County Office of Education offices in Santa Cruz, is expected to offset carbon emissions by close to 150 metric tons in the first year alone, and reduce office energy use and purchases of utility-generated power by over 40 percent. Chevron Energy Solutions designed, engineered and installed the solar system and efficiency improvements, and will perform ongoing operation and maintenance services.

"We are proud to work with the Santa Cruz County Office of Education to deliver significant improvements in both sustainability and cost savings," said Jim Davis, President of Chevron Energy Solutions. "Today's report by superintendent Michael Watkins to the Santa Cruz County Board of Education demonstrates the County Office of Education's leadership and vision, becoming an example for many other governmental agencies."

Santa Cruz County's Superintendent of Schools, Michael Watkins, will address the Santa Cruz County Board of Education on Thursday, January 17, 2013 at a ribbon cutting ceremony starting at 2:00 p.m. at the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, 400 Encinal St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

About Santa Cruz County Office of Education
The Santa Cruz County Office of Education is a public agency whose purpose is to provide educational leadership, resources and services to schools to ensure quality educational opportunities for all students. This mission is accomplished through partnerships with teachers, school districts, businesses and other governmental agencies. Direct instructional programs are offered through special education, alternative education and Regional Occupational Programs. District services are provided in the areas of staff development and fiscal services. Included in the responsibilities of the Santa Cruz County Office of Education is coordination with the California Department of Education.

About Chevron Energy Solutions
Chevron Energy Solutions is one of the largest installers of solar power in the US public sector and has developed hundreds of projects that improve energy efficiency and provide renewable power for education, government and business facilities. Chevron Energy Solutions develops and builds sustainable energy projects that increase energy efficiency and renewable power, reduce energy costs, and ensure reliable, high-quality energy for government, education and business facilities. Its parent, Chevron Corporation, invests across the energy spectrum to develop energy sources for future generations by expanding the capabilities of alternative and renewable energy technologies.

Contact:
Brent Andrew, Chevron Energy Solutions, 415.733.4697
Mary Hart, Santa Cruz Office of Education, 831.466.5902

SOURCE Chevron Energy Solutions