Cambridge, Massachusetts, 290.8 kWdc

Harvard University Commercial Rooftop System, 2025

On the rooftops of Harvard University’s A.R.T. Scene Shop in Cambridge, a cutting-edge solar energy system is making a powerful statement. Completed in January 2025, the 290.8 kWdc installation spans 8,000 square feet and is designed to fully offset the building’s electricity usage - while generating enough surplus energy to support at least four additional campus facilities.

Driven by a vision of environmental leadership and operational savings, Harvard partnered with Commercial Solar Guy and Patrick Edwards Electrical to deliver a system built for performance, safety and longevity. At its heart: four SMA Sunny Tripower CORE1 (50 kW) and one Sunny Tripower X (25 kW) inverters  - delivering reliable energy conversion in full compliance with UL 3741 rapid shutdown requirements.

The project team overcame the challenges of a complex rooftop and stringent permitting by deploying robust structural support and a thoughtful system design that minimized rooftop penetrations. The UL 3741-compliant configuration  - enabled by SMA’s inverter technology and racking partner Unirac’s EcoFoot® 5D mounting system - eliminated the need for module-level shutdown hardware, reducing failure points and streamlining the system for long-term durability. Operational savings with this system in place will be nearly $100,000 annually.