Paired Power has partnered with Santa Clara University (SCU) to provide clean energy for the university’s maintenance and electric vehicle fleet. Two PairTree™ solar electric vehicle (EV) chargers were installed at SCU’s facilities yard, generating power entirely from solar energy, unlike typical EV chargers that rely on the electric utility grid. This initiative is part of SCU’s broader efforts to reduce carbon pollution and enhance sustainability beyond traditional measures.
Sean Collins, SCU’s assistant vice president for University Operations, emphasized the significance of this installation for the university’s climate action goals, stating that it models how organizations can take responsibility for reducing carbon pollution while generating renewable energy for their fleets.
Paired Power’s PairTree and PairFleet products are already utilized by various municipalities, Fortune 500 companies, and federal agencies, making SCU one of the first universities to install these solar chargers for fleet use. Located in Silicon Valley, SCU has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, aligning the installation of PairTree chargers with its energy goals to reduce energy consumption, enhance energy self-sufficiency, decarbonize purchased energy, and improve sustainable transportation options.
The PairTree chargers feature an integrated solar canopy system that combines solar energy with grid power and battery storage for EV charging. Designed to withstand winds of up to 130 mph, they are low-maintenance and capable of providing reliable charging in various weather conditions, making them ideal for SCU’s electric maintenance vehicles.
Tom McCalmont, CEO of Paired Power and former member of SCU’s Engineering Advisory Board, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting how the PairTree chargers can help the university reduce reliance on fossil fuels and serve as a model for other institutions in achieving sustainability goals.
The installation process was quick, with the unique bifacial panel design capturing both direct and reflected sunlight to maximize energy yield. This project is part of SCU’s sustainability strategic plan, “Leading Through Laudato Si’,” which aims to foster a more just and sustainable world.
Lindsey Kalkbrenner, SCU’s sustainability director, thanked alumni Greenie and Donald Van Buren for their support in bringing this technology to the university and emphasized the importance of collaborating with local businesses and alumni to advance SCU’s sustainability initiatives.
