OSU bus shelters go solar

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

(June 18, 2008   Stillwater, OK) - Shelters equipped with solar panels are now being installed along routes of the OSU/Stillwater Community Transit System operated by OSU’s Department of Parking and Transit Services. Sustainable, emissions free lighting at “THE BUS” stops is the latest, creative initiative by Parking and Transit Services in light of the university’s efforts to get all departments, faculty, staff and students to reduce energy consumption and help save on operational costs.

Conversion of sunlight into electricity by solar panels, or photovoltaic cells, saves substantial money and is pollution free. At the bus shelters, they will produce electricity that will be stored and used for lighting at night.

Eight of the solar panel-equipped shelters on the OSU campus and six shelters throughout the city of Stillwater will be installed this summer. Phase II of the project will begin during the fall, and 12 more shelters will be constructed along THE BUS routes.

Since its inception in 2003, THE BUS system ridership has increased steadily. As gas prices continue to rise, more and more people are expected to turn to the transit system, according to Parking and Transit Services director Steve Spradling. Installation of the solar panel-powered bus shelters is one way for the department to give back to the community.  

Spradling said the solar panels are not only economical and environmentally friendly, but also increase nighttime safety and security for transit riders. Areas of campus, such as the university housing complexes, as well as the Stillwater community will benefit greatly from the sense of security provided by the lighted bus shelters.  

The solar panel-equipped bus shelters are part of a growing number of conservation efforts initiated by OSU’s Department of Parking and Transit Services to help the university “go green.” GreenRide, a rideshare program Parking and Transit Services offers helps carpoolers match up according to destination, schedules and personal preferences. OSU is one of five Big 12 universities that offer the special carpooling and permit program for students, faculty and staff.

For more information about conservation and money saving programs offered OSU Parking and Transit Services, visit www.parking.okstate.edu.