PROJECT ROLE

Structural Engineer

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

AE Dynamics was honored to work with the Bozeman School District to design and coordinate the structural aspects of supporting a 50kW photovoltaic array of solar panels on several of the district’s buildings (Meadowlark Elementary, Hyalite Elementary, Emily Dickinson Elementary, Morning Star Elementary, and the Support Services Building). The solar panels were placed on the flat gymnasium roofs at the elementary schools, requiring analysis of the existing roof system and replacement of ballast once the solar arrays were installed. At Support Services, AE Dynamics engineered a clamp and clip installation system that was installed over the existing metal roof.

Each solar array will generate enough electricity to offset roughly 25% of the building’s electricity needs.  Funding for the panels came from many sources, including grants from Northwestern Energy and the Montana Solar Community Project, regular school repair funds, and money remaining after students fundraised to install panels at Sacajawea Middle School.