Solar arrays at Show Me Center parking lot will provide clean energy

Southeast Missouri State University’s Show Me Center parking lots in Cape Girardeau now boast 3,500 working solar panels that harness sunlight to generate clean energy and provide plenty of shade for drivers. The solar panels went into operation in late August, thanks to a partnership with Ameren Missouri.

“Just as we are responsible for preparing students for successful futures, we recognize we all have a role to play in creating a sustainable future for our environment,” said Carlos Vargas, Ph.D., president of Southeast. “We saw this project as an opportunity to make the most of our available property to provide more renewable energy to our community. It was also a good opportunity for our students to learn more about sustainable energy and shadow Ameren Missouri professionals as Southeast prepares students for tomorrow’s careers today.”

Construction of the solar canopies began in October 2021 at the Show Me Center’s north and south parking lots. No parking spots were lost due the project, and the panels now provide shade and weather protection for the cars parked underneath them. The project was funded entirely by Ameren Missouri through the Neighborhood Solar program, which also managed the installation.

“Southeast has been a great partner in providing their parking lot for this project, which will provide enough energy to power more than 130 homes for a year,” said Mark Birk, chairman and president at Ameren Missouri. “This marks Ameren Missouri’s sixth solar facility in operation, with many more on the horizon. By bringing this facility online, we’re getting closer to our goal of providing reliable, resilient and affordable energy while achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.”

Ameren Missouri’s Neighborhood Solar program, which is part of the Smart Energy Plan, utilizes existing buildings, parking lots and land for solar energy generation – at no cost to the university. This program also creates local jobs and provides valuable training opportunities for not only the initial installation, but for ongoing maintenance as well.