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Green technology

Duke Energy Invests in USF St. Petersburg Campus Sustainability Efforts

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus is making significant strides towards a greener future with continued support and investment from Duke Energy. This support has led to various initiatives, including the installation of new electric vehicle charging stations, improvements in student spaces such as solar-powered study areas and residence hall recycling, and educational programs that inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.

Key Takeaways:

  • The University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus has partnered with Duke Energy to implement various sustainability efforts, including the installation of electric vehicle charging stations and solar-powered study areas.
  • Four fast-charging Electric Vehicle (EV) stations are being installed outside the Science and Technology (STG) building, near the Harborwalk and Tavern at Bayboro, at no cost to the university as part of Duke Energy's Park and Plug pilot program.
  • The EV stations can provide up to 150-400 miles of range per hour of charging and are available to anyone with an active USF parking permit.
  • Duke Energy is investing $48,000 on campus to replace a previously installed outdoor study and collaboration station with solar-powered charging capabilities and adding a second station for student use.
  • The campus will also be installing new recycling bins in student residence halls, with Duke Energy donating $2,000 towards the addition of 32 new bins.
  • The partnership between Duke Energy and USF St. Petersburg aims to guide students towards rewarding careers in clean energy and sustainability.
  • The dedication to a more sustainable campus extends beyond infrastructure to education, with a focus on inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders through educational programs and science camps.
  • Duke Energy has invested $25,000 in the Oceanography Camp Especially for Girls, a three-week marine studies summer program for students in Pinellas County.

Statistics:

  • $48,000: Duke Energy's investment to replace a previously installed outdoor study and collaboration station with solar-powered charging capabilities.
  • $2,000: Duke Energy's donation towards the addition of 32 new recycling bins in student residence halls.
  • $25,000: Duke Energy's investment in the Oceanography Camp Especially for Girls.
  • 150-400 miles: The range of electric vehicles that can be charged per hour at the new EV stations.
  • 4: The number of fast-charging Electric Vehicle (EV) stations being installed on campus.
  • 32: The number of new recycling bins being added to student residence halls.
  • 30 years: The legacy of the Oceanography Camp Especially for Girls marine studies summer program.

Sources:

  • University of South Florida St. Petersburg news release.
  • Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy's state president in Florida and chair of the USF St. Petersburg campus board.
  • Christian Hardigree, USF St. Petersburg Regional Chancellor.

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