A Step Towards Sustainability

Beta Theta Pi

With the price of living on the perpetual rise and the University of Florida administration’s continual push towards creating a “greener” campus, it was only a matter of time before someone took the initiative and stepped forward to make a permanent impact at the University of Florida. Stuart Block, a junior studying sustainability studies, is trying to make a positive impact in an unprecedented manner. In a joint effort with the Florida-based solar panel installation company, Power Production Management and the UF Physical Plant, he’s organized the installation of 10-kilowatt solar panel system on the roof of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity house with the goal of reducing their electricity bills and carbon footprint. 

“I also thought it would be a good way to contribute to the University’s long-term goal of being a carbon-neutral campus by 2025,” said Block.

“I just want people to realize that it’s possible for anyone to contribute to the sustainability movement on this campus,” said Block. “With fraternity and sorority houses having a secure long-term lifespan on campus, a solar PV system is a feasible investment.” 

Even though the solar panel installation provides just a small amount of energy in  comparison to the energy demands of the entire campus, that small amount of energy generated will reduce Beta Theta Pi’s energy usage and carbon footprint dramatically. 

“My hope is to have the panels payed for within the next 10 years with the money we’re saving from having them installed,” said Block. “Every day after that, the panels are reducing our energy consumption and saving us money.”

All of this wouldn’t have been more than an idea without the cooperation of the campus administration. Fortunately, the UF Energy Manager John Lawson was more than happy to invest in the long-term sustainability of the on-campus fraternity houses. 

“As far as I know, no one has made an effort to get solar panels installed on a fraternity or sorority before,” said Lawson. “That being said, if this installation effort ends up being successful, we’ll be more than happy to work with other organizations.” 

By using rebate money from the physical plant, Lawson said he was able to help fund the construction of the solar panels in exchange for service hours provided by members of the fraternity towards conservation projects organized by the University of Florida.

Construction of the panels is scheduled to begin in early February. 

“In my classes on sustainability we are taught that one person can make a change,” said Block. “Without the help of Beta’s alumni and active chapter, Power Production Management and Mr. John Lawson, this would not have been possible.” 

Andrew is a sophomore studying statistics. You may contact him at apisacano19@ufl.edu.