The new MSU Surplus Store and Recycling Center isn’t just “green” for the obvious reasons: The building also houses a 50 kilowatt roof-mounted solar energy array, made up of 12 rows of 16 photovoltaic panels.

Depending on the amount of sunlight available, the array can generate up to 50 kilowatts of energy to supplement the main power feed at the facility.

“The array is always connected to the building’s electrical system, so when the sun comes out it automatically starts to generate energy and offset the power being supplied from the Power Plant,” said Rick Johnson, engineer IV/supervisor.

The Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association (GLREA) and the American Solar Energy Society (ASES) featured MSU's array in the 2009 Michigan Sustainable Homes and Business Tour that took place on Oct. 10. The tour was led by Recycling Operations Supervisor Bob Bryan.

“The tour allows residential and business people interested in incorporating panels into their homes or businesses to visit local sites,” said Lynda Boomer, energy and environmental engineer.

Recycling Graphic Artist Nancy Aitcheson worked on the promotional pieces for the tour.

Given that the array is not visible from the outside of the building, the lobby of the recycling center comprises a remote display year-round that allows those interested to see and learn about the panels.

October 15, 2009