About

Founded in 2006, the Thomas Jefferson Solar Panel Initiative (TJSPI) is comprised of a group of about 35 student volunteers from the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. The students work under the guidance of Mrs. Amanda Hurowitz and Mr. Hadan Kauffman, faculty members at TJHSST. The mission of the TJSPI is to integrate solar energy into the TJHSST building and culture by first introducing solar power infrastructure and then ultimately powering the entire school from solar power via incremental increases in solar power production and photovoltaic system output.

.

To achieve energy independence for TJ, first one must install the framework of the solar panel system, as well as solar photovoltaic panels. Thus, our current goal is to obtain an initial, on-grid solar power system. An off-grid system and/or full energy independence are not yet the goals of this committee. The accompanying goal and provision is to ensure the maintenance and repair of the system for the future.

.

Solar energy is the most feasible and cost-effective renewable energy solution in Northern Virginia. Other forms of renewable energy, such as wind power, are excellent in the correct conditions; in this area, there is not enough wind to make wind power practical. Thus, given the current state of technology, solar power is the best route.

.

Though student-driven, this project is being guided by Mrs. Amanda Hurowitz and Mr. Hadan Kauffman, members of the TJHSST Faculty. Additionally, the project has been approved by Dr. Evan Glazer, Principal of TJHSST. The TJSPI has chosen to work with Standard Solar Inc. for the purchase and installation of solar panels. Standard Solar, a Maryland-based company that specializes in solar power installations in the area, has generously given a discount on the solar panel system, as well as free installation and training seminars for students and faculty at TJ. The funding for this project will come from: corporate donations; community members, groups, businesses, charities; and grants from various organizations. We have already raised over a quarter of the necessary funds, attracted media attention, and received backing and endorsement from major organizations (e.g. The Earth Day Network).