EGT Solar is proud to call Idaho home. Most of our team members were born and raised right here in Boise or in nearby Idaho communities. That’s one of the reasons why every project we take on matters — because we’re literally building a more energy-resilient community for our family, friends, and neighbors.
One of our latest projects aligns with our most significant goals for our community and is very close to our hearts: the installation of high-efficiency solar panels and a state-of-the-art monitoring system at Whittier Elementary School.
Whittier Elementary lies within the Boise School District, where generations of our staff’s families have attended schools, and where many of our employees’ children attend school. So, when offered the chance to help power this local school with clean, renewable energy, we jumped at the opportunity.
Why This Project Is Important
The Boise School District has made big commitments to clean energy, and this Whittier installation moves them one step closer to their goals — while also supporting the City of Boise’s ambitious plan to reach 100 percent renewable electricity by 2035.
By adding solar panels to Whittier Elementary’s rooftop, EGT Solar is helping the school offset roughly 53 percent of its energy needs. This means reduced carbon emissions and lower electricity bills, with the school projected to save an estimated $14,560 in the first year alone.
Thanks to expected energy savings and incentives, the system will pay for itself in 12 years or less. Funds that would have otherwise been allocated to utility expenses can now go back into classrooms, teachers, improving school facilities, and programs that benefit students.
Included with this installation is a robust monitoring system that gives the Boise School District real-time data on the performance of each panel. Not only will this help staff manage energy production efficiently, but it also turns the school into a living, hands-on educational opportunity.
EGT Solar will again be partnering with the school district to provide educational presentations to students, faculty, and parents about this solar system. How exciting it will be for all involved to learn how much power their school is generating and see clean energy in action.
Greater Community Impact
The impact of this installation goes beyond technical specs. It has also been about re-investing in a community that has shown us so much support.
Over the past 16 years, operating solely in southern Idaho and serving over 5,000 customers, we have continued to deepen our ties within this community. This project has brought our team immense pride in knowing that we have been directly supporting the families that contributed to EGT’s growth.
“It’s been exciting to partner with the Boise School District on this project,” says EGT Solar’s Director of Sales, Dan Bennett. “As a prior student representative and volunteer for the Boise School District in my youth, I was able to see firsthand how much the Boise School District cares about this community. It is evident that this district is looking towards educating future generations at a high level, and we are thrilled our team can contribute to their efforts.”
Building in a Way That Matters
Whenever possible, we source high-quality, U.S.-manufactured products in an effort to demonstrate our support for domestic production. This project is no exception.
Supporting U.S. job growth in our industry directly correlates with more opportunities for Idahoans and more access to cost-saving projects and services for schools like Whittier Elementary.
We believe strongly in the application of rooftop solar because it’s a big win for the environment and for the demand for additional resources. It eases pressure on the energy grid without taking up valuable land space, keeps more energy dollars local, and delivers long-term savings.
Leading the Way, Looking Ahead
By investing in solar, Whittier Elementary and the Boise School District are leading the way for schools and organizations across Idaho. They’re demonstrating that it’s possible to embrace sustainability while being fiscally responsible.
“Ultimately, it’s important for all of us to be a part of change,” says EGT Solar’s CEO Rob Black. “Rooftop solar is an opportunity to preserve our planet for future generations.” And for us here at EGT, that “future generation” includes our own kids, nieces, nephews, and neighbors.
We hope Whittier’s example inspires even more local schools, businesses, and homeowners to explore solar. The future is bright here in Idaho, and we’re honored to be part of powering it.
