Two stories of campuses doing something about climate change

Just a short post today, sharing two positive stories about academic institutions taking concrete action about climate change.

ITEM: in Illinois, Loyola University Chicago is re-sourcing its electrical power to a renewable provider. Loyala will purchase power from a nascent solar installation in-state:

Developed by renewable energy developer, owner and operator Swift Current Energy, the project — named “Double Black Diamond” — will be the largest solar farm in Illinois and among the largest solar projects in the country, and provide enough electricity to completely power the University’s Lake Shore, Water Tower, and Health Sciences Campuses.

When does this start? “Double Black Diamond is expected to start producing renewable electricity in late 2024.”

Note that the university worked with a consulting firm, Coho, to make this deal. This is a budding industry that might welcome some college graduates.

This electrical outsourcing switch is also part of Loyola’s broader climate strategic plan. There’s a lot going on there, from establishing a working group to polling the community, deciding which energy steps to take, supporting a student-run biodiesel facility, doing an inventory of campus trees sequestering carbon, and holding campus climate events. They publish a clear carbon footprint as well: