The solar array at Orchard Road serves as a 2 megawatt operational solar photovoltaic system which provides University Park with 1% of its electricity needs. Many organizations and individuals played a role in the construction of the site, including Penn State operational staff students, and AEDG (Alternative Energy Development Group) which owns and maintains the project along with its partner Meadow Valley Electric. The solar array contributes to sustainability efforts by replacing a portion of the electricity purchased from the grid with a source of electricity that does not emit greenhouse gases. In the future, Penn State and AEDG hope the site will act as a living laboratory with a multitude of active research efforts ongoing. At least three colleges have already been involved and two senior capstone projects have been completed. One project was to design an immersive educational kiosk and observation deck. Once it is built, it will be easy to access on a 12-month basis. The project is a reminder of Penn State’s current efforts and commitment to renewable energy, which is part of Penn State’s Strategic Plan.