VALLEJO, CA — California State University Maritime Academy has secured $1 million in federal funding through the offices of Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) for an Academic Microgrid Project.

The funding will assist in the acquisition and installation of a photovoltaic (PV) system on campus to serve the University’s basic and emergency energy needs, generate energy cost savings, and act as a tool of education for academic research and development.

“We are extremely grateful to Sen. Dianne Feinstein and Sen. Alex Padilla for their support and advocacy of Cal Maritime,” said Cal Maritime President Thomas A. Cropper. “This project will be a learning and living opportunity for Cal Maritime faculty, students, staff, and neighboring communities, and will result in environmental, social, educational, and economic benefits for years to come.”

Cal Maritime supports California State University’s (CSU) larger sustainability goal to implement sustainability initiatives in operations, curriculum, and the community.

“I am pleased that funding for Cal Maritime’s academic microgrid project was included in last month’s federal spending bill,” said Sen. Feinstein. “Upgrading this 92-acre campus to an independent, renewable energy system will benefit not only campus sustainability efforts but also the local community and environment. I commend President Cropper for his commitment to advancing sustainability in education and for continuing the school’s legacy as an integral part of the CSU system.”

“I am proud to have secured funding for California State University Maritime Academy’s Microgrid Installation Project, which will help the University meet its energy goals and better prepare for emergencies,” said Sen. Padilla. “Installing a solar energy microgrid is both sustainable and a strategic resource for campus resilience. This project will also support academic research and outreach programs within the surrounding community.”

 

Project benefits to Cal Maritime’s campus

  • Reduce Cal Maritime Carbon footprint
  • Minimizing dependency on grid power
  • Reduce campus electricity costs
  • Serve as a sustainability platform for academic research and curriculum.
  • Generate renewable energy credits

 

See Sen. Dianne Feinstein's tweet here.

ABOUT CAL MARITIME
Established in 1929, California State University Maritime Academy is the only degree-granting maritime academy on the West Coast. Located in Vallejo, California, the campus offers undergraduate degrees that prepare students for careers in engineering, transportation, international relations, business, and global logistics. Cal Maritime also offers a master’s degree in Transportation and Engineering Management, as well as a number of extended learning programs and courses.