With New Owner, Science Barge Upgrades Solar Power, Rolls out New Climate Curriculum

Lots of news from the Science Barge, the Hudson River-based environmental education center which has a new owner, is getting an upgrade on its off-the-grid solar electric system, and is rolling out new climate curricula this fall.

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano will flip the switch Oct. 6 on the system, which was donated by Green Mountain Energy Sun Club.

“This donation from the Sun Club propels the Barge into the next era, totally updating the energy system that powers our hydroponic farm. We will now have double the solar power and double the energy reserves,” said Bob Walters, director of the Science Barge, in the announcement.

The $50,000 grant includes 12 new LG solar panels that produce a total of 3,420 watts and an Iron Edison 48 volt battery bank that is significantly more efficient than the outdated system it is replacing.

“The Sun Club loves working with unique nonprofits, and the Science Barge is an excellent demonstration of renewable energy and environmental education,” said Mark Parsons, president of the Green Mountain Energy Sun Club and vice president and general manager of Green Mountain Energy Company. “We’re proud to support the Science Barge by helping the sustainable urban farm operate completely off the grid.”

The Science Barge educators are also rolling out new climate change curricula this fall, thanks to a grant from the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Association (NOAA).

Groundwork was one of only six organizations in the country to receive this grant to provide cutting-edge education in climate change and resiliency to school students. New signs and exhibits will be installed on the Barge, spreading awareness about climate change among thousands of visitors each year.

The Science Barge is open for weekday educational programs and field trips for schools, camps, and other groups from mid-April through the beginning of November. It was rated “Best in Westchester: School Trip” in 2012.

Thanks to an anonymous donor, the Science Barge was recently purchased by Groundwork Hudson Valley, freeing the organization from a long-time lease obligation.

“Now, with the new energy system, the Barge is positioned to demonstrate and teach sustainable farming for the future, with zero carbon emissions, zero pesticides, and zero runoff,” notes Walters.

Accompanying Spano at the press event will be representatives from Green Mountain Energy Sun Club and Green Mountain Energy Company, Science Barge staff and volunteers, local elected officials, and members of Groundwork Hudson Valley’s youth Green Team. There will be refreshments and giveaways for attendees.

Since its founding in 2002, the Green Mountain Energy Sun Club has donated more than $4 million to nonprofits focusing on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and resource conservation in numerous communities in Texas and in the Northeast. To learn more about the Sun Club, visit www.gmsunclub.com.

Besides Green Mountain Energy’s Sun Club, the Science Barge is funded by grants from the City of Yonkers, ConEdison, Domino Sugar, NOAA, the EPA, and the Hudson River Foundation. The Barge is located at 99 Dock Street, Yonkers, NY 10701.

WHEN - 4 p.m. Oct. 6
WHERE - Science Barge, 99 Dock St., Yonkers, NY

PHOTO/ Science Barge