Ameresco, Inc., a prominent energy solutions provider, has partnered with the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) to install solar shade and carport structures at five middle schools. These installations will include over 2.7 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems as well as electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The schools included in the project are Northridge Middle School, Pacoima Middle School, Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies, Sun Valley Magnet School, and Sutter Middle School. In addition to supplying shaded parking for staff, faculty, and visitors, the EV charging stations will support Los Angeles’ and California’s broader push toward widespread EV adoption.

Ameresco is not only responsible for the development and installation of these solar systems but will also handle their operations and maintenance. The project includes a 25-year performance guarantee to ensure long-term reliability. The initiative is part of a larger $20.7 million program to bring solar energy to a total of 21 schools across the LAUSD, reflecting the district’s commitment to sustainability as outlined in its 2019 Clean Energy Resolution, which aims to achieve 100% clean energy by 2040.

This school solar program also supports the City of Los Angeles’ broader goal of reaching 100% renewable energy by 2035. The goal was adopted by both the city and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) based on findings from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s LA100 Study. The study emphasized the importance of aggressively scaling up renewable technologies like solar, wind, and storage to modernize the city’s electric grid, enhance resilience through diversified energy sources, and ensure equitable energy solutions.

Alberto M. Carvalho, Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, said in a statement, “We’re looking forward to working with Ameresco to reduce the district’s carbon footprint and lowering our operating expenses for utilities. Our K-12 school communities will benefit not only from the recurring cost savings from these projects, but also from the firsthand experience watching energy systems of the future installed at their own schools. It’s a terrific way to prepare our students for the world they are going to inherit.”

Louis Maltezos, President of Central & Western USA, Canada Regions at Ameresco, stated, “Our team is always thrilled to have the opportunity to support school districts in their transition to clean energy solutions. And, in light of the challenges faced by the community in and around the Los Angeles area during the recent wildfires, Ameresco is proud to partner with LAUSD to implement these clean, renewable energy projects that will provide direct benefits to the district while contributing to improved energy resilience in the area.”

Beyond environmental benefits, the project also offers significant financial advantages. The entire 21-school program is expected to yield up to $45.7 million in net cost avoidance, even after accounting for implementation, maintenance, and performance guarantees. Over its 25-year lifespan, the program is projected to save LAUSD up to $168 million in utility costs, allowing the district to redirect funds toward student-centered priorities and core educational initiatives.