On Oct 28., the Los Lunas High School became a part of solar-energy history.

Consolidated Solar Technologies finished installation on a 50 kilowatt system in the parking lot of the school, using locally manufactured panels and funds drawn from the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act, which was authorized by New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson.

"From the onset of our PV Solar project, Los Lunas Schools was focused on selecting a quality partner and proven solar components," said Terry Othick, chief operations officer of the Los Lunas School District, in a press release. "The selection of Consolidated Solar Technologies for the design and construction of our system using SCHOTT solar panels accomplished both of our objectives and supported the goal of job creation within the State of New Mexico." SCHOTT, a local solar manufacturing plant, employs over 300 people.

Students at Los Lunas were actually involved with the calculations and planning process of the solar system, which will save the school $20,000 annually in energy costs.

The fact that the panels, the installers, and the site were all in one state makes this installation stand out. Many solar panels come from overseas, primarily China and Korea.

"SCHOTT Solar is committed to growing a strong solar industry in Albuquerque and across the nation with our proven, high-quality modules," said Tom Hecht, President and Chief Sales Officer of SCHOTT Solar PV, Inc., in a press release. "It is our privilege to partner with CST and work with New Mexico's schools to support their environmental stewardship. Together we can harness New Mexico's abundant sunshine to create both clean energy and local jobs."

According to a press release, the array will be integrated into the school's classes and monitor the system's output using real-time software.

Pictured: SCHOTT plant workers build solar panels outside Albuquerque, New Mexico.