The Erb Memorial Union’s “Solar Powered Ducks” project has qualified as one of four finalists for an EWEB Greenpower Grant.

If chosen, the UO will receive one of two $50,000 grants from EWEB to install a 16 kilowatt solar electric system on the soon-to-be-renovated EMU, helping the building to become a leader in campus sustainability.

EWEB Greenpower customers will select the grant winners by vote. Those interested in registering for the Greenpower program can sign up before March 31 to participate in the vote. Greenpower customers must submit ballots by April 14.

The proposed solar array exemplifies the UO’s commitment to sustainability and would help it achieve LEED platinum status, the highest certification offered by the U.S. Green Building Council. Panels would be manufactured in Oregon by Solar World. EMU visitors would learn about the new system and its benefits through interactive maps, digital energy meters, dedicated signage and building tours.

The new system would be installed by June 2016. It is expected to generate approximately 17,105-kilowatt hours of electricity, offset 13,715 pounds of CO2 and save an estimated $1,539 annually. UO’s Student Sustainability Fund and other campus sources have already committed $33,000 to the project.

Winners will be announced by EWEB at the Earth Day Celebration on April 19.

The $95-million dollar EMU project is funded by a combination of student fees, gifts and grants. Plans include improvements to the EMU’s historic west wing and a new 80,000 square foot east addition.

- by Katherine Cook, UO Office of Public Affairs Communications intern