The system includes 381 Conergy modules and Enphase 215 inverters. It is estimated to produce 126,925 kilowatt hours of electricity per year.

NAPILI – Maui Preparatory Academy is expected to save more than $450,000 over the 20-year life of a photovoltaic (PV) system recently installed by Hawaii Pacific Solar (HPS).

The PV project was funded by parents of a Maui Prep student.

“The savings Maui Prep will see with the PV system is just one part of the picture. We also are educating our students about the environment and showing them one example of how we can work together for a more sustainable Hawaii,” explained George Baker, MPA headmaster.

The PV system will prevent 220,223 pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere – equivalent to the CO2 emissions from 11,236 gallons of gasoline or from 232 barrels of oil.

As part of HPS’ effort to help students learn about solar energy and PV, HPS gave Maui Prep a flat screen monitor that allows students to do real-time monitoring to see the amount of power being generated, amount of carbon reduction, and energy savings as a result of the solar panels. The monitoring can also be viewed on HPS’ website at www.hawaiipacificsolar.com.

Maui Preparatory Academy’s seventh annual Paniolo Night benefit will be held on Saturday, Feb. 23, with fun and games starting at 4 p.m. The event will feature laser tag and lots of games for keiki, a paniolo barbecue buffet, music, contests and line dancing. Admission is $20 ($10 for keiki nine and under). Call 665-9966.

In addition, the company provided curriculum materials developed by the National Energy Education Development Project and information on sun safety.