The Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP) announced on April 29 the launch of its “Techos sostenibles” pilot project, which involves installing and operating 20 new-generation solar panels on the roof of the Dintilhac building. The panels, donated by Novum Solar and led by PUCP graduate Tomás Luy, will supply clean energy directly to the university’s electrical grid.
The initiative aims to demonstrate a commitment to environmental care and sustainable development within the campus community. It also seeks to set an example for other institutions in Peru. Rector Julio del Valle said, “This initiative is the opportunity to demonstrate that we have a campus that is inhabited and where development opportunities are friendly with the environment. Together with our graduates, we want to generate a positive impact that transcends our community and becomes a replicable example for more institutions in the country. We seek to have a very solid commitment with our ‘common home’.”
A meeting was held on April 24 for the inauguration of these solar panels, attended by university authorities, environmental specialists, members of Novum Solar, and Father Rodolfo Silva who blessed the installation. Luy said: “Since I studied Civil Engineering at PUCP, I wanted to generate a positive impact with my career. I have been doing it in sustainability through Novum Solar. I have always been in contact with my alma mater because private companies need fresh ideas from universities and recent graduates and vice versa.”
The system includes twenty photovoltaic panels measuring approximately 1.13 meters by 2.40 meters each—covering about 65 square meters—and designed for up to 10 kWp power output. This capacity can provide enough electricity daily for fifty desktop computers or five hundred LED office lights over several hours.
Environmental policy underpins this project; it aligns with measures approved on April 22 during Earth Day celebrations at PUCP. Ana Sabogal, president of PUCP’s Environmental Commission said: “This is the first action implemented within our environmental policy framework and shows PUCP’s commitment to sustainability.”
PUCP promotes cultural and social wellbeing by emphasizing contributions from its academic community in education and research according to its official website. The university operates under its institutional framework as RUC 20155945860 according to its official website. Academic achievements are highlighted alongside societal issues via news published through its portal drawing upon expertise from professors and researchers according to its official website. Communication efforts are directed by Dirección de Comunicación Institucional according to its official website.
Looking ahead, PUCP plans further installations of photovoltaic panels as well as rooftop gardens across campus buildings as part of broader efforts toward sustainability.
