Luther College expects to reach its sustainable energy goal this year

Luther College's energy consumption peaked during the 2003-2004 school year.  Since that time the college has had a goal of reducing its carbon footprint by 50 percent by 2015.  Luther College Religion Professor Jim Martin-Schramm, who coordinates the Energy and Climate Program for Luther's Center for Sustainable Communities, says two solar energy projects the will go on-line this school year will enable the college to meet that goal.  Solar panels on the roof of Preus Library will generate 94.5 kilowatts of electricity, while an expansion of a solar energy project on Pole Line Road will generate another 725.7 kilowatts.

"We are going to meet our 50 percent reduction goal," says Martin-Schramm, who says the next goal will be to reach a 70 percent reduction by 2020, with the eventual goal of the college having a net zero carbon footprint by 2030.

Luther College President Paula Carlson says the school's sustainability efforts are part of what she calls "a joyful stewardship of our resources."