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Prepared by: Gabriel Teles, Tommy Zucchinali, Abby Coursey
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The Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee is a student-run committee that manages funds generated by the Student Renewable Energy Fee to support renewable energy, energy efficiency, and energy education projects on UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus.
This annual report highlights the committee’s leadership, funded projects, and campus impact during the 2025–2026 school year.
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Max Nelson
Tommy Zucchinali
Victoria Farella, Chief of Staff
Aravind Krishna, Deputy Chief of Staff
Abigail Coursey, Co-Director of Media and Engagement
Aylin Bal, Co-Director of Media and Engagement
Sophia Moloo, Director of Finance and Operations
Evan Zhu, Finance Chair
Rohan Collins, Finance Chair
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Project Leads: Carlisle Shore and Landon Knox Status: Funding Approved (February 2026), Installation to Begin May 2026 Funding Allocated: $75,000
Overview Two Solar Haven tables will create self-sustaining outdoor study and charging spaces in high-traffic campus areas such as the SASB courtyard. Each table operates off-grid using built-in solar generation and battery storage, expanding access to renewable energy in everyday student spaces. The project builds on the success of RESPC’s previous solar table installations on campus.
Project Highlights
Solar tables in the Murray/Venable courtyard
Solar tables in the Murray/Venable courtyard
“I always come here to study after lunch. It’s nice having a place to work and charge outside, especially when the weather’s warmer” — Ladiana Shyti (UNC student)
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Project Leads: Carlisle Shore and Landon Knox Status: Funding Approved (March 2026), Installation to Begin Summer 2026 Funding Allocated: $499,999
Overview This project funds the reinstallation and expansion of rooftop solar at the Frank Porter Graham Student Union. As RESPC’s largest initiative to date, it will expand visible on-campus renewable energy infrastructure in one of UNC’s most central student spaces. The project strengthens both energy generation capacity and the visibility of clean energy on campus.
Project Highlights
Frank Porter Graham Student Union
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Project Leads: Carlisle Shore and Landon Knox Status: Funding Approved (April 2026), Installation to Begin Fall 2026 Funding Allocated: $399,085 (RESPC) + $100,000 (Energy Services)
Overview This project supports the installation of a solar array paired with a battery and battery management system at the Friday Center. By combining renewable generation with energy storage, the system is designed to improve resilience and long-term energy performance. It also represents a significant partnership between RESPC and Energy Services.
Project Highlights
Aerial view of the Friday Center
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Project Leads: Victoria Farella Status: Funding Approved (April 2026), Installation to Begin May 2026 Funding Allocated: $162,000
Overview This project will upgrade library lighting to energy-efficient LEDs during ongoing building renovations. The retrofit is intended to improve efficiency, reduce operating costs, and modernize lighting throughout the space. Because the Undergraduate Library is a heavily used campus facility, the project will have visible day-to-day impact.
Project Highlights
Robert B. House Undergraduate Library
“As an ex-officio member of [RESPC] for the last 2 plus years, I have been continually impressed by RESPC’s leadership and collaborative approach in advancing innovative renewable energy initiatives across campus. … RESPC’s commitment to thoughtful investment in renewable energy continues to strengthen UNC–Chapel Hill’s path toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future.” — Vee Veerabhadrappa
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Status: Ongoing Funding Allocated Funding Allocated: $43,053
Overview The Efficient Freezer Rebate Program provides funding incentives for labs to purchase more energy-efficient freezers. The program supports both direct energy savings and broader awareness of sustainable lab practices. As an ongoing initiative, it continues to build cumulative long-term impact across campus research spaces.
Project Highlights
Energy-efficient laboratory freezer used in UNC campus research facilities
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Project Leads: Evan Zhu, Maxwell Guo Status: Funding Approved (December 2025), Full Operation Spring 2026 Funding Allocated: $44,928
Overview This project replaces gas-powered grounds equipment with battery-operated alternatives to reduce campus emissions and noise pollution. By shifting routine maintenance equipment away from combustion engines, the project improves efficiency while supporting cleaner campus operations. It also marks a practical step toward more sustainable grounds management at UNC.
Project Highlights
Battery-powered grounds equipment
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