Bruce Vento Elementary School

Building on a Vision for Sustainability

When Saint Paul Public Schools replaced Bruce Vento Elementary, the district viewed the project as more than a new school building. Designed as an environmental magnet school, the facility incorporates prairie landscaping, stormwater reuse and a geo-exchange heating and cooling system that uses the aquifer beneath the site.

To further support the district's sustainability goals, SPPS pursued rooftop solar at Bruce Vento. The project aligned with the school's mission while creating an opportunity to reduce long-term energy costs and strengthen the district's investment in renewable energy.

As Rosemary Dolata, Project Manager with SPPS Facilities, reflected on the evolution of solar technology, “It was a huge piece of equipment that produced a little bit of power. Now we’re going to have much more modest equipment producing a whole lot more power.”

Bringing the Project to Life

After a competitive state procurement process, SPPS selected Cedar Creek Energy to design and install the solar array. In addition to cost, the district evaluated experience with similar projects and the ability to work effectively within educational environments.

Cedar Creek Energy designed a 582-panel ballasted rooftop system that protects the school's newly constructed roof while meeting the district's operational requirements and federal domestic-content standards. The array was energized in 2026 and is expected to generate nearly 377,000 kWh of electricity annually.

The project was made possible through a combination of Minnesota's Solar for Schools program and anticipated federal direct pay, significantly reducing the district's upfront investment while maximizing long-term value.

Project Impact

The Bruce Vento solar array is expected to save SPPS approximately $35,800 annually in electricity costs while producing enough renewable energy to avoid an estimated 253 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.

Beyond the energy savings, the project serves as a visible example of sustainability in action. Students attend a school where renewable energy, efficient building systems and environmental stewardship are integrated into the campus itself.

The success of the project has also helped expand the partnership between SPPS and Cedar Creek Energy. Following the completion of Bruce Vento, the district selected Cedar Creek Energy for its next Solar for Schools project at Expo Elementary and continues to explore additional solar opportunities across the district.

Looking Ahead

The Bruce Vento solar project demonstrates how schools can pair sustainability goals with responsible financial planning. Through strategic use of available funding programs and strong project partnerships, Saint Paul Public Schools is creating learning environments that reduce operating costs, support renewable energy and provide long-term value for students, staff and taxpayers. Cedar Creek Energy is proud to help districts turn those goals into reality.