Joplin's Cornell Complex unveils state-funded solar project to cut its electricity costs
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The Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex is turning to solar power to reduce operating expenses and free up more funding for arts and education programs in downtown Joplin.
Community leaders, complex officials, and members of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce gathered Thursday to celebrate the completion of an 83-kilowatt solar energy system.
This is expected to reduce the complex's annual electricity costs by 11% to 14%, providing long-term savings for Connect2Culture and the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts, which are housed in the facility.
The project received $250,000 in state funding through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
State Rep. Dirk Deaton played a key role in securing that funding through the state budget process.
Sharon Beshore, president of the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, said rising utility costs prompted the effort to find a more affordable way to power the facility.
She said the goal extends beyond simply reducing the building's monthly bills.
The system generates electricity on-site, reducing the amount of power the complex must purchase from the utility.
Liberty Utilities also supported the installation through its net-metering program, which allows qualifying solar customers to receive credits for excess electricity returned to the power grid.
The financial benefits are expected to support performances, art exhibitions, educational opportunities, and community programming.
