WINONA. Minn. – Winona State invited news reporters to campus to show off the university’s new solar-panel parking lot that’s under construction. Nathan Engstrom, campus sustainability director, said completion was still projected for September. In addition, six rooftop solar-gathering installations are going atop the Haake, Helble and Kirkland dorms, the Wellness Center, McCown Gym and the Wabasha Recreation Center. The university has dubbed it all the Leading Energy Savings project — “LESS” for short. The project is costing $25 million but is expected to:
> Save $26 million in campus energy costs over 20 years.
> Improve campus energy and water efficiency.
> Reduce Winona State’s environmental impact.
The project will make Winona State the most energy efficient in the 54-campus Minnesota State system, Engstrom said.
Like wings of angels. Support struts for three rows of covered parking await solar panels. Image: Steve Lunde
A drone ‘s view. As seen in archtect’s rendering.