In 2010, Lakeland College purchased Barrhill Farms which included 10 quarters of land and a yard that borders the west side of the Vermilion campus. The college repurposed existing buildings to create a development and demonstration facility showcasing applied research and training in renewable energy.

One of the houses on the site was renovated to include multiple renewable energy systems including geothermal heat, solar thermal collection, solar electrical energy from both fixed and tracking systems, and a wind turbine. Named the Renewable Energy Learning Centre, the building demonstrates how these renewable systems can work in a typical home. It also serves as a hands-on lab for students in the renewable energy and conservation diploma program.

Join us May 31, 2012 from 3-7 pm as Lakeland College officially opens its Centre for Sustainable Innovation, a multi-systems research and demonstration site. Enjoy a barbeque with the proceeds going to Vermilion Habitat for Humanity, take a tour of the facilities including the Renewable Energy Learning Centre as well as research and testing shops, and learn more about the many applied research and innovation activities at Lakeland College.

Photo: Rob Baron shows Lakeland College president Glenn Charlesworth solar panels during a recent tour at the centre.