Project Background
The library expanded and renovated the library building in 2023 to create a welcoming, accessible, and comfortable facility to add spaces for library sponsored activities and community events/gatherings. These spaces include large community meeting space, casual gathering areas, classroom for hands-on creative work, areas for browsing
and reading, as well as outdoor community activity space. As part of the renovation and expansion project, a photovoltaic (PV) system was installed to provide electricity cost savings and to provide education on renewable energy to the public.
The 27 kW DC PV system is installed on the roof of the new addition of the Carnegie-Schadde Memorial Public Library. The system provides estimated electricity cost savings of approximately $4,509 per year. Like all public libraries, the Carnegie-Schadde Memorial Public Library has a reputation for being a force for good in the Baraboo community through education and outreach. A solar panel installation on the library presents the opportunity to lead by example when it comes to environmental responsibility in the face of climate change. Solar panels will not only reduce the library’s carbon footprint but provide an opportunity to educate the public on the importance of green technologies.
The rooftop PV system for the library was designed by Eagle Point Solar along with the local engineering firm, MSA. During the library’s 2023 renovation and expansion, appropriate wiring was put in place so that the project was ready for solar panel installation in 2024. Eagle Point Solar installed the PV system.
To view live solar energy production dashboard, visit our SolarEdge Dashboard.
Solar Partners
This project was a community effort, and included collaboration from Powered Up Baraboo, the City of Baraboo, and the Carnegie-Schadde Memorial Public Library as well as donations from sponsors.
Sponsors
- Ted & Kay Savides, Kit & Orie Eilertson, Rick & Yente Eilertson, Annya (Eilertson) Fahey
- Karen Mesmer & Robert Rolley
- Jerry & Sandra Jackson
- Carol Fleishauer
- Serge Koenig & Marcia Everts
- Jocelyn & Leon Miller
- Carol & Kevin Olson
- Judy Spring
- David Wernecke
- Other anonymous donors
Further Information on Solar Energy
Solar systems that generate electricity are called photovoltaic (PV) systems. Kilo-watts (kW) and Kilo-watt hours (kWh) are measures of electrical capacity and energy production. A kW is a measure of instantaneous capacity. A 10 kW solar PV system running at full capacity for one hour will produce 10 kWh which is a measure of energy or electricity production. The cost of energy delivered is measured in cents per kWh. PV systems don’t directly heat water or air.
For a grid connected PV system, the four main components are solar panels, inverters (convert direct current from the solar panels to alternating current), racking (holds panels on the roof or ground), balance of system (includes conduit, wire, electrical breakers etc.). For additional information, some local and regional resources include Sauk County, Powered Up Baraboo, Couillard Solar Foundation, or RENEW Wisconsin.