Sunset Terrace goes solar: Oakland University’s presidential home powered 100% by renewable energy

Sunset Terrace - the historic home of Oakland University President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, M.D. - has become the first building on the university's Rochester campus to be powered entirely by renewable green energy. The achievement marks a major step forward in OU's ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

"Sustainability is one of the core values that guides our university," said President Pescovitz. "This project demonstrates how Oakland University can lead by example - investing in clean energy solutions that reduce our carbon footprint and inspire future generations to build a more sustainable world. By blending historic preservation with cutting-edge clean energy solutions, Oakland University is showing what's possible
when tradition meets progress."

A Landmark Renewable Energy Project

The transformation of Sunset Terrace was made possible through the installation of a 100-kilowatt photovoltaic (PV) solar system, designed and engineered by Michigan Solar Solutions (MSS). The ground-mounted solar array generates approximately 112,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year - enough to supply 100% of the home's annual energy needs, including heating and cooling through high-efficiency electric heat pumps.

During the summer months, when solar production exceeds the home's energy consumption, surplus electricity is exported back to the grid through an electric smart meter operated by DTE Energy.

"This is an important milestone for Oakland University," said Rafi Bayrakdarian, director of engineering and energy for OU Facilities Management. "The Sunset Terrace solar project demonstrates how renewable energy investments can deliver both environmental and financial benefits. The clean energy generated will offset approximately 80 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year - equivalent to removing 20 gasoline-powered vehicles from the road or planting more than 1,200 tree seedlings that grow for a decade."

Smart Investment, Real Savings

The financial feasibility of the project was strengthened through the Elective Pay option in the Section 48E Energy Investment Tax Credit, part of the federal Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. This program allows tax-exempt institutions like Oakland University to benefit directly from federal clean energy incentives. Through this initiative, Oakland University is expected to receive an estimated $95,000 credit to support the project.

After the credit, the project's total cost will be $220,000. The project is expected to generate approximately $16,000 in annual energy savings, resulting in a payback period of less than 14 years.

Honoring History While Building a Sustainable Future

Sunset Terrace, completed in 1953, was originally built as the retirement home of Oakland University's founders and benefactors, Alfred and Matilda Wilson. Designed by architect William Kapp of Smith, Hinchman & Grylls, the 11,400-square-foot residence exemplifies a prairie-style design inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. With its curvilinear architecture, extensive glasswork, and integration with the surrounding Meadow Brook Estate, Sunset Terrace has long served as a symbol of elegance and hospitality.

Over the decades, the home has hosted notable university leaders, artists, and guests - from the university's first chancellor, D.B. "Woody" Varner, to world-renowned pianist Vladimir Ashkenazy. Now, with the addition of state-of-the-art solar technology, Sunset Terrace's legacy continues in a new way - as a beacon of innovation and sustainability.

A Model for Campus Sustainability

The Sunset Terrace solar installation joins a growing list of green initiatives at Oakland University, including energy-efficient building upgrades, campus recycling programs, and sustainability-focused research and coursework. OU's Facilities Management team continues to explore additional renewable energy projects across campus, helping the university reduce its environmental impact while promoting a culture of sustainability.

"Our goal is to make every project - big or small - contribute to a cleaner, more efficient campus," Bayrakdarian said. "Sunset Terrace is just one more example of how we're turning our sustainability goals into tangible results. By harnessing renewable energy at Sunset Terrace, we're demonstrating Oakland University's commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and a greener future for our campus community."