Student Activism Drives Polytechnic School’s Ambitious Solar Energy Project

A student-led initiative from Upper and Middle School sustainability groups at Polytechnic School in Pasadena has culminated in the installation of 432 solar panels – a significant step toward campus-wide sustainability goals.

The project, which went live on Nov. 13, transforms the school’s 60- and 40-year-old Scott and Gamble Gyms into net-zero energy buildings through a comprehensive renovation that includes solar arrays and heat pump technology.

City officials and school stakeholders gathered on Nov. 20 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the installation, which features nine all-electric heat pumps and innovative “cool roof” technology that lowers gym temperatures on hot days.

“For Pasadena to continue to be a leader in sustainability, it is important that our entire community take proactive steps toward reducing their carbon footprint,” said David Reyes, Pasadena Water and Power Interim General Manager.

The initiative originated in 2021 when six students from the Upper School Green Schools Club presented administrators with a proposal for transitioning to 100% clean energy by 2030.

Their advocacy led Polytechnic School to partner with Verdical Group to measure carbon emissions and create a campus carbon neutrality plan, which was completed one year after the students’ presentation.

Within just 23 days of operation, the new 238 kiloWatt rooftop system has prevented 23,824 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to planting 180 trees, according to school officials.

The project implements three key strategies: eliminating gas heating, enhancing energy efficiency, and generating on-site solar power, with implementation coordinated by Polytechnic School’s Operations Team and resident electrical engineer Ruben Almonte.

“The City can’t reach our goal of providing 100% carbon-free energy in Pasadena by 2030 without the help of community partners like Poly,” said Pasadena Councilmember and Polytechnic School parent Jason Lyon.

“Retrofitting old buildings to make them net zero is not easy and takes a big commitment,” said Laura Fleming, Poly’s Environmental Sustainability Manager. “I’m proud of what we accomplished with 60 and 40-year-old buildings. I hope it inspires other institutions to explore net zero projects with their older buildings, too!”