News Release

All Campuses

Dedications Planned for New Solar Field and Learning Resource Center at Cerro Coso Community College

Ridgecrest, CA – September 28, 2004

The newly constructed Solar Photovoltaic Field and the new Learning resource Center (LRC) will both be formally dedicated on Friday, October 8, 2004 in Ridgecrest, California. The dedication for the Solar Photovoltaic Field will take place at 10 a.m. The Learning Resource Center dedication will take place a few hours later at 1:15 p.m.

Dr. Sharon K. Dyer, President of Cerro Coso Community College, stated "The new facilities are a tremendous asset to Ridgecrest and the surrounding communities." She has invited the public to attend both Dedication Ceremonies to witness history in the making.

The one-megawatt solar field will supply approximately 60% of the electrical needs of the Indian Wells Valley Campus. Half of the $8.9 million construction cost was paid by the California Energy Commission through Southern California Edison. The other half came from a voter-approved bond. Dyer said she hopes to see a minimum of $300,000 in savings every year, which will be returned to academics.

The nearly $12 million, 40,000 square foot, Learning resource center is about expanded resources of books electronic learning technology. "The LRC is specifically designed for those doing research, and is geared towards serving student needs" states director of the LRC Dennis VanderWerff.

The public is cordially invited to attend both dedications on October 8, 2004.


 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Joann Handeland, Director of Facilities Development and Services (760) 384-6230