Sunday, October 26, 2025
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University of the Pacific Joins Elite Ranks with Complete Shift to Renewable Energy

In an impressive leap toward sustainability, the University of the Pacific has now completely switched to renewable energy for powering all of its campuses' electricity needs. According to ABC10, this achievement ranks them among just 16 colleges in the nation to fully embrace clean energy. The majority of Pacific's electricity is sourced from hydroelectric and solar power, with additional support from geothermal and wind energy. The final phase of this green transition took place at the Stockton Campus this month, coincidentally or perhaps fittingly, during Campus Sustainability Month. As President Christopher Callahan conveys, “Transitioning all three of our campuses to renewable electricity reflects Pacific’s deep and ongoing commitment to sustainability,” aligning with both environmental responsibility and economic practicality, as reported by ABC10. It's not just about lights and laptops either; Pacific's devotion to sustainability is comprehensive. A report by the University of the Pacific outlines their implementation of a Bachelor of Science in Sustainability degree, and a variety of electric transportation options, including bikes, cars, and campus shuttles. Pacific's commitment extends beyond just utility bill savings, however. Sustainability Director Jessica Bilecki, recognized as a driving force behind the achievement, expressed that this movement signifies a lasting investment in the long-term well-being of the university's community: “It demonstrates to current students, future students and alumni that Pacific is invested in their long-term well-being,” as noted by the University of the Pacific. Pacific's noteworthy sustainability profile also includes recognition in the Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges and a claim to the second spot among private institutions for on-site electricity generation in the U.S. By using non-potable water for irrigation and generating nearly a third of its energy through solar panels, Pacific is setting an example in sustainability. The university’s green energy efforts have already saved over $1 million, showing how smart energy use can be both practical and responsible. This approach places the University of the Pacific at the forefront of environmental leadership, benefiting current and future generations.

University of the Pacific Joins Elite Ranks with Complete Shift to Renewable Energy

In an impressive leap toward sustainability, the University of the Pacific has now completely switched to renewable energy for powering all of its campuses' electricity needs. According to ABC10, this achievement ranks them among just 16 colleges in the nation to fully embrace clean energy.

The majority of Pacific's electricity is sourced from hydroelectric and solar power, with additional support from geothermal and wind energy. The final phase of this green transition took place at the Stockton Campus this month, coincidentally or perhaps fittingly, during Campus Sustainability Month. As President Christopher Callahan conveys, “Transitioning all three of our campuses to renewable electricity reflects Pacific’s deep and ongoing commitment to sustainability,” aligning with both environmental responsibility and economic practicality, as reported by ABC10.

It's not just about lights and laptops either; Pacific's devotion to sustainability is comprehensive. A report by the University of the Pacific outlines their implementation of a Bachelor of Science in Sustainability degree, and a variety of electric transportation options, including bikes, cars, and campus shuttles.

Pacific's commitment extends beyond just utility bill savings, however. Sustainability Director Jessica Bilecki, recognized as a driving force behind the achievement, expressed that this movement signifies a lasting investment in the long-term well-being of the university's community: “It demonstrates to current students, future students and alumni that Pacific is invested in their long-term well-being,” as noted by the University of the Pacific. Pacific's noteworthy sustainability profile also includes recognition in the Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges and a claim to the second spot among private institutions for on-site electricity generation in the U.S.

By using non-potable water for irrigation and generating nearly a third of its energy through solar panels, Pacific is setting an example in sustainability. The university’s green energy efforts have already saved over $1 million, showing how smart energy use can be both practical and responsible. This approach places the University of the Pacific at the forefront of environmental leadership, benefiting current and future generations.

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