Submitted Photo Pictured is how the State University at Fredonia solar/battery project will look when completed.

The State University at Fredonia has started construction on its first solar/battery project.

The New York Power Authority, as the campus’ energy advisor, is overseeing the project. Selected in a competitive bidding process, the state’s strategic partners Oriden, a Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems venture, and Solar Liberty are providing a turnkey installation for the solar-plus-storage solution, from concept to design, installation and financing.

The project supports the SUNY Clean Energy Roadmap — announced last year by SUNY in partnership with New York state’s energy agencies — to accelerate progress toward Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s goal to procure 70 percent of New York’s electricity from renewable energy by 2030 and to transition to a carbon-free power grid by 2040. SUNY Fredonia has partnered with NYPA, which will manage the project, to incorporate clean renewable energy resources on its campus.

Oriden and Solar Liberty will provide a customized 1.4 megawatt ground-mounted solar photovoltaic array integrated with a 500 kilowatt energy storage system to ensure energy is available during peak electric demand and emergencies. The solar-plus-storage solution will provide about 1.7 gigawatt hours of energy and offset an average 432,000 pounds of carbon dioxide each year.

“This project underscores Fredonia’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The solar array will provide significant long-term financial savings, while also supporting the institutional goal of environmental sustainability as outlined in Fredonia’s strategic plan,” said Dennis Hefner, interim SUNY Fredonia president.

The project — located on the north edge of campus between the New York State Thruway and the Blue Devil softball field – will be hosted by the campus, and SUNY Fredonia will purchase all energy produced through a power purchase agreement.

“SUNY continues to be a leader in the smart use of clean, renewable resources and NYPA is proud that our expertise as a clean energy advisor is providing a pivotal example for other universities and organizations across the state,” said Gil C. Quiniones, NYPA president and CEO. “With this project, SUNY Fredonia made a commitment to more efficient energy use and environmental responsibility. We are also pleased that the Oriden and Solar Liberty team proposed an integrated customized solar and energy storage solution that will optimize the broader electric power grid.”

Solar Liberty, one of the largest solar electric installers in New York State, will provide the Engineering, Procurement and Construction services as well as long-term maintenance. Oriden, a renewable energy developer, will support the development as well as provide project financing.

“SUNY Fredonia is leading by example to its staff, student body, and broader community that clean renewable power generation and storage can be creatively incorporated at universities statewide,” said Nathan Rizzo, Solar Liberty vice president. “This project has great significance for me as a SUNY Fredonia alumnus. I am proud of the University’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.”