Energy
NC State’s energy management strategies minimize costs, save natural resources and reduce emissions.
The university has a complex energy grid with five utility plants plus a vast network of steam and chilled water pipelines. The main two energy sources NC State uses are natural gas and electricity. NC State also has several solar energy sources.
Energy conservation strategies successfully reduce campus energy use while enabling the university to progress toward its goal of a 40% energy use reduction per gross square foot by 2022 (as compared to the 2002 baseline).
NC State Energy Management is responsible for tracking, managing and reducing energy use on campus.
Energy Resources
Resources for Individuals
DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency) allows homeowners to explore current incentives.
Professional training is available in energy-related fields. Numerous K-20 STEM education opportunities also focus on energy.
NC State Extension has Home Energy Conservation resources.
Resources for Businesses
The NC Clean Energy Technology Center provides services related to the development and adoption of clean energy technologies.
Energy Solutions helps identify and implement energy efficiency initiatives.
Industry Expansion Solutions provides services for businesses to reduce energy use and environmental impact.
Technical assistance is available for businesses and industry.
Solar Energy
NC State has been a leader in solar research since the earliest days of the technology. Additionally, NC State has many solar installations on campus, including:
| Project | Date Completed | kW / Solar Collectors |
|---|---|---|
| Fitts-Woolard Hall Rooftop | Fall 2023 | 182 kW |
| SolarSpace at Gardner Arboretum | September 2021 | 800 watts |
| Solar Scoreboards at Method Road Field Complex | November 2017 | 160 watts |
| Solar Charging Bus Stop on Dan Allen Drive | February 2017 | 160 watts |
| Solar Umbrellas (locations include Owen and Bragaw Residence Halls, Park Shops and Wellness and Recreation) | starting 2015 | 162 watts |
| Centennial Campus Solar Structure | October 2015 | 1.5 kW |
| Keystone Parking Deck Stairway Solar | 2014 | 2.5 kW |
| Solar House Annex | ongoing | Solar Total: 6 kW. 1 kW Kanika I, 2 kW Kanika II, 1 kW Blue Sun, 2 kW SunPowerWind Total: 2.2 kW., 1.2 kW Wind Spire, 1.0 kW Sky Stream |
| Solar Pavilion in Welch, Gold, Syme Residence Halls courtyard | July 2012 | 3 solar panels, 0.7 kW |
| Partner I Rooftop | 2015 | 22 kW |
| James B. Hunt Jr. Library | 2012 | 12 solar thermal panels |
| Sullivan Shops III Complex | 2011 | 8 solar thermal collectors |
| Wellness and Recreation Solar Thermal | 2011 | 30 Solar Thermal Collectors and 112 Solar Thermal Collectors |
| Keystone Science Center | 2010 | 40 kW |
| Research IV | 2009 | 3 kW |
| Park Alumni Center Solar Thermal | 2006 | 1 solar thermal collector |
| Solar House | 1981 | 3.0 kW Garage, 5.4 kW PV Roof 2 Solar Thermal Collectors |
