The 1.2 MW photovoltaic (PV) farm at East Los Angeles College (ELAC) is comprised of 5,952 solar panels installed atop seven large-scale carports – which provides space for 530 vehicles.  The solar project and generators will occupy three acres and will have an expected life of at least 40 years. The electricity generated by the solar panels will satisfy approximately 45 percent of the College's energy needs. 

Energy produced that is not needed by the College will either go back to the grid or be put into centralized storage. ELAC's solar farm works in conjunction with the new Central Utility Plant, which - until the College ultimately achieves energy independence - saves energy by drawing power from the grid at night when demand is lower and the prices are cheaper.

The ELAC PV Farm will also act as a living model for students, allowing them to study the panels and electrical equipment to learn more about their design, construction, chemistry and physics.  This will prepare them for the "green collar" jobs of the 21st century Los Angeles economy.