Brentonians Committed to Sustainable Development

Periodically we will be interviewing current and past Brentonians who are involved in sustainable development. Here at Brentwood, we are incorporating environmentally friendly features into our newest building on campus in order to gain LEED accreditation. Our board of governors strongly supports this decision, both on and off-campus. One of our board members, Brock Harris ('93), has just installed solar panels on the roof of his office building in Los Angeles. In a recent interview, we learned more about his decision to switch to solar power.

Why did you choose solar panels?

"The solar panels were free from the U.S. government. There are such massive incentives for solar right now--it's cost effective for them to install them for free and then I can rent them for 20 years at $75 per month, offsetting a $100 monthly power bill. The lease rate doesn't increase but the cost of power will." Responding to an offer from a company called Solar City, Brock not only cuts costs but can earn money selling any extra solar power back to the city of LA.

How did you learn about solar power?

"I read about it in the newspaper. I had called them before and called again about the leases and it made a lot of sense." Brock owns the building where he runs his business. To date, he's the only person he's heard of in his neighbourhood who is using solar power, which is supplemented by standard power. A panel is installed that balances the two systems--if it's sunny, then he runs strictly off solar power. Prior to installation, the orientation of the building was checked by satellite to ensure that it's a sun-favouring spot.

Why did you choose Solar City?

"Because of the lease arrangement. Other companies didn't offer the same deal." What's involved in the installation and maintenance?
"For the installation, they had to draw plans for the roof and put in new footings. That cost some money - around $1000. The new footings go right into the frame of the building--the panels are very securely attached. In terms of maintenance, the panels are cared for by the company. They suggest sweeping them of dust a couple times a year to maximize their effectiveness." What are the environmental benefits?
"The office has a zero carbon footprint when the panels are fully powered. We're powered by the sun, like Superman!" Does your office have other green features?
"We do full recycling, we buy recycled paper products and we recycle our toner. I was one of the first people to buy a Prius. The solar is the crown jewel though, I'm very proud of it."