ASI Celebrates Solar Array Grand Opening and Decades of Sustainability Leadership

| Lynsey Forsberg

San Luis Obispo, Calif. 06/01/2026 — Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) celebrated a major milestone in
campus sustainability efforts with the Solar Array Grand Opening held Thursday, May 7, at the Julian
A. McPhee University Union. The event highlighted the launch of a new 520-panel, 210 kW solar array
installed on the University Union rooftop, reinforcing ASI’s longstanding commitment to
environmental stewardship and renewable energy innovation at Cal Poly.
The solar array represents one of the most impactful sustainability projects in ASI history,
contributing renewable energy not only to the University Union, but also to the broader Cal Poly
campus. The system supports Cal Poly’s long-term goal of having an on-site solar generation to
provide nearly 30% of the university’s total electricity consumption.
Sustainability has remained central to ASI’s mission for more than 40 years. Throughout that time, ASI
has implemented projects focused on reducing environmental impact, conserving resources, and
improving campus operations. These efforts align with California energy efficiency standards,
including Title 24 Energy Code and CALGreen requirements, as well as CSU Executive Order 987,
which establishes systemwide sustainability and energy management policies.

The University Union solar array builds upon these efforts through a major investment in renewable
energy infrastructure. ASI supported the project by upgrading the University Union’s electrical
distribution system to allow solar power input and redistribution across campus facilities. The system
is maintained by REC Solar under a 30-year power purchase agreement, ensuring long-term efficiency
and sustainability benefits for the university community.
The Solar Array Grand Opening served as both a celebration of this achievement and a reflection on
ASI’s broader sustainability journey. From small operational improvements to transformative
infrastructure projects, ASI continues to prioritize solutions that create lasting environmental impact
for current and future Mustangs.
To explore the full history of ASI sustainability projects and milestones, visit the ASI Sustainability
Timeline on our ASI website. Community members can also stay informed about future sustainability
initiatives and events by following ASI on Instagram and subscribing to our newsletters.
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