University Union Solar Panel Launch

San Luis Obispo, Calif. 04/06/2026— Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) will celebrate the launch of a new solar panel installation on the rooftop of the Julian A. McPhee University Union on Thursday, May 7 from 11 a.m. to noon. The installation represents a significant step forward in ASI’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and renewable energy. 

The solar array includes 520 solar panels generating 210 kW (DC) of renewable electricity. The system contributes power not only to the University Union but also to the broader campus energy grid, supporting Cal Poly’s ongoing efforts to expand clean energy infrastructure. Over the past decade, ASI has worked closely with Cal Poly’s Energy, Utilities & Sustainability department to make the installation possible. As part of the project, ASI funded and implemented upgrades to the University Union’s electrical distribution system. The previous system had reached the end of its lifecycle, and the upgraded switchgear now enables the building to accept solar input and redistribute generated power across campus. 

“ASI has been a key campus partner in sustainability efforts,” said Ron Skamfer, Director of Facilities Management for ASI. “We are excited to have paved the way for this project to come to fruition, as ASI funded electrical infrastructure upgrades to the University Union that made this project possible. ASI appreciates the partnership with the Energy, Utilities & Sustainability department and will continue to work toward sustainability-focused projects in the future.” 

Olivia Short, Secretary of Health & Wellbeing for the ASI Executive Cabinet explained, “I hadn’t really understood what makes campus sustainable, except for the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) buildings, but as I’ve gotten to know more about the different environmentally sustainable projects ASI has been investing in, I feel better about using our facilities. It’s also good to know where my ASI fees are going towards.” 

With the addition of the University Union array and other solar installations across campus, Cal Poly’s on-site solar generation now provides nearly 30% of the university’s total electricity consumption. ASI has supported sustainability initiatives for more than twenty years through infrastructure improvements, energy efficiency projects, water conservation initiatives, and waste reduction programs.  

Students, staff, and community members are invited to attend the launch event on Thursday, May 7 from 11 a.m. to noon to learn more about the installation and ASI’s ongoing sustainability initiatives. 

For more information, contact dconnor@calpoly.edu or visit the ASI Sustainability website.  

XXX