Barnard Environmental Magnet School

The solar photovoltaic system at Barnard Environmental Magnet School was the first commercial solar PV system to be installed in Greater New Haven.  It was installed in 2006 as part of a $43 million expansion and renovation project at the school.  Consisting of 196 solar panels, the solar electric system provides approximately 11 percent of the school’s electricity.  It also serves as a Solar Learning LabTM for the students, who are able to access real-time solar energy data in the classroom.

 
This solar array has helped to make Barnard the most environmentally advanced school in the city.  Electrical loads generated within the school are minimized with various natural day-lighting features, landscaped green roofs which will improve thermal performance, and the facility’s heating and air-conditioning systems, which include a number of energy-saving features to optimize performance and reduce operating costs. 

In fact, Barnard holds the distinction of being the first LEED-certified public school in Connecticut.  In addition to incorporating renewable energy and energy-saving features, the building was designed to save over 225,000 gallons of water each year, and 15 percent of the materials used in the expansion/renovation project were made from recycled content.  The school’s green practices are very much consistent with its focus on environmental science.

Barnard, a regional magnet school, serves students in Pre-K through 8th grade.