203 kW – Princeton, NJ

Princeton Montessori School Partners with Plankton Energy to Power Campus with Rooftop Solar

Princeton, NJ — Princeton Montessori School has partnered with Plankton Energy to install a 202.5-kilowatt rooftop solar system on its campus in Princeton, NJ—now fully operational and powering the school with clean, cost-saving electricity. The system was installed through a power purchase agreement (PPA), allowing the school to benefit from solar energy without the burden of upfront costs or ongoing maintenance.

This project reflects the school’s deep commitment to sustainability, hands-on learning, and smart financial management. By investing in solar, Princeton Montessori reduces its utility expenses and integrates renewable energy into its educational mission.

A Smart Energy Solution for Education

The solar array is expected to generate more than 240,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually—offsetting a significant portion of the school’s electricity needs. As a behind-the-meter system, the power is consumed onsite, reducing the school’s reliance on the utility grid.

Under the PPA model, the school purchases electricity from Plankton Energy at a discounted rate, ensuring immediate and long-term utility savings without needing to fund the project itself.

“This project allows us to lead by example in sustainability while reducing our operating costs,” said a school administrator. “With Plankton’s partnership, we’ve found a practical way to align our values with our energy use.”

Education Meets Action

With the solar system now part of the campus, Princeton Montessori teachers have a real-world tool to bring sustainability into the classroom. The system supports the school’s environmental literacy goals, giving students direct exposure to the science and impact of renewable energy.

It’s also a visible and meaningful way for the school to model climate leadership, engaging families and the broader community in its commitment to responsible energy use.

Financial Savings That Scale with the School

Over the life of the system, Princeton Montessori is projected to save more than $300,000 in energy costs. The system will also prevent more than 1,700 metric tons of carbon emissions—the equivalent of avoiding nearly 190,000 gallons of gasoline burned.

These savings directly support the school’s mission, enabling reinvestment in student programs, technology, staffing, and long-term facility improvements.

“Our mission is to deliver energy solutions that support education and community leadership,” said a spokesperson from Plankton Energy. “Princeton Montessori’s solar transition is an investment in both its future and the future of its students.”

Supported by the New Jersey SuSI Program

The project was developed with support from the New Jersey Successor Solar Incentive (SuSI) Program, which offers performance-based payments for each kilowatt-hour of solar electricity generated. The SuSI Program is a key driver of solar adoption in the state, particularly among schools, nonprofits, and other mission-driven organizations.

New Jersey continues to be a national leader in clean energy policy, with the SuSI Program ensuring that the benefits of solar are financially accessible to a wide range of institutions.

A Turnkey Project from Plankton Energy

Plankton Energy served as a full-service development partner on the project—managing everything from feasibility analysis and engineering to permitting, utility interconnection, and PPA structuring. The result was a hassle-free solar experience that allowed the school to stay focused on its academic mission.

With deep experience in the education sector, Plankton Energy delivers customized solar solutions that align with the financial and operational needs of schools, religious institutions, and nonprofits nationwide.

“We believe every school should have access to affordable solar power,” the spokesperson added. “It’s about reducing costs, enhancing resilience, and modeling sustainability in a meaningful way.”

Project Snapshot: Princeton Montessori School, Princeton, NJ

• System Size: 202.5 kW DC
  
  
• Estimated Annual Generation: ~240,000 kWh
  
  
• Building Type: Educational
  
  
• System Type: Rooftop, Behind-the-Meter
  
  
• Mounting Type: Fixed-Tilt Roof Mount
  
  
• Agreement Type: Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
  
  
• Incentive Program: New Jersey SuSI Program
  
  
• Host Benefits: Utility cost savings, sustainability education, no upfront cost
  
  
• Environmental Impact: ~1,700 metric tons CO₂ avoided over system lifetime
  
  

About Plankton Energy
Plankton Energy is a national turnkey solar developer serving schools, nonprofits, and mission-driven institutions with customized clean energy solutions. By offering fully managed, zero-capital solar projects, Plankton empowers educational organizations to reduce costs, lower emissions, and bring sustainability into the classroom.

For More Information contact info@planktonenergy.com.