MCC receives rebate from Oncor's solar power incentive program
September 23, 2009
McLennan Community College received a rebate from Oncor for the college's use of solar panels on two new buildings, the Emergency Services Education Center (ESEC) and the Science Building. Oncor presented MCC with a rebate worth $116,000 on Sept. 21 at the ESEC.
The rebate is part of Oncor's Solar Photovoltaic Incentive Program, which offers financial incentives for customers who add solar photovoltaic power systems to help offset traditional electric energy usage. MCC earned $104,000 for the ESEC and $12,000 for the Science Building.
MCC installed solar panels on the ESEC that will provide 12.5 percent of the electricity needed to operate the facility. The panels on the school's Science Building will generate enough power to operate pumps for three outdoor water fountains.
The solar photovoltaic panels will also help MCC in its quest to earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification on both buildings. The college is anticipating earning a gold rating on the Science Building and platinum (the highest rating) on the ESEC.
MCC worked with several local companies to add solar panels to the designs of the new buildings. RBDR was the architectural firm, and local renewable energy company Holt Tech worked with MCC to get the Oncor rebate. John W. Erwin General Contractor Inc. coordinated the installation of the panels at the ESEC, and Harrison, Walker & Harper did the same for the Science Building. 
Oncor Area Manager Mike Cain presents a rebate check to MCC President Dr. Johnette McKown and Gene Gooch, MCC vice president of finance and administration.