If you have ever wondered how much energy solar panels can generate on a sunny day versus a cloudy day, you may consider a visit to Buder Library or Julia Davis Library. Visitors will notice new monitors have been installed at each location. These digital displays showcase the real-time and historical production of energy generated by the newly connected solar panels on each building, serving as a visual representation of St. Louis Public Library’s (SLPL) commitment to sustainability.
SLPL worked with Veregy, a prominent decarbonization company, to oversee the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on the rooftops of Buder and Julia Davis. These panels effectively capture solar energy and convert it into electricity, which helps to power the buildings.
"We have been very pleased with the results of our partnership with Veregy on this transformative initiative,” said Justin Struttmann, Chief Operating Officer at SLPL.“These upgrades not only enhance the comfort and experience for our customers but also reduce the ongoing maintenance and utility expenses for the buildings."
Additional energy improvements have been made at Buder and Julia Davis, as well as Schlafly Library. These upgrades include enhancements to the HVAC systems to create a more comfortable environment and reduce energy consumption. Outdated lighting has been replaced with energy-efficient LED systems, making it easier to find your next book and more comfortable for reading. Also, the installation of smart building automation systems enables efficient management of energy resources within the buildings.
The solar panels at Buder and Julia Davis generated about 18,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity in August and are expected to reduce CO2 emissions by over 240,000 pounds per year. The mechanical and lighting improvements will further reduce energy consumption, reducing CO2 emissions an additional 561,000 pounds and saving the Library about $40,000 each year.
There will also be significant annual operational and maintenance savings with the new equipment. SLPL is expecting more than $70,000 in utility incentives from Ameren Missouri and will be eligible to apply for Investment Tax Credits of over $230,000 through the Federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) for the solar installations.
“These projects have the dual effects of reducing carbon emission while creating operational savings that allow us to allocate more resources toward community programs and services,” Struttmann said.
“Additionally, having the solar monitoring displays in the buildings offers our customers a unique opportunity to engage with real-time data on solar energy production with different cloud cover at various times of day. It provides the community with a powerful interactive learning tool to consider the broader implications of energy use and the role they can play in fostering a more sustainable future.”
