KBV Solar energy installation performing above expectations
Rachel McMaster
Special to the Kansan
Two years after installing 97 solar panels to help reduce energy costs and carbon emissions, Kidron Bethel Village is seeing returns at a greater rate than was initially expected.
The solar system, which was fully funded by an anonymous donor and installed in January 2019, was a response to the kind of environmentally-friendly action residents and the public were asking. Environmental care is also a value which Kidron Bethel Village has given particular emphasis over the last several years.
“We want to be environmentally-conscious and give residents who live in our communities the chance to do that as well,” said James Krehbiel, CEO and President of Bluestem Communities, a non-profit life plan community organization of which Kidron Bethel is a part. “Renewable energy sources impact generations well into the future.”
Kidron Bethel Village moving forward with improvements
The Kansan
The relationship between Bethel College and Kidron Bethel Villiage of North Newton is a unique one. Students in staff roles, volunteer arrangements and social events allow generations to connect.
Likewise, the college hosts Kidron residents for various events, including its annual Life Enrichment series that provides learning opportunities for those ages 60 and older.
“Anywhere from 150 to 200 of our students work at Kidron every year,” said Bethel College President Jon Gering. “That’s part of our goal to become a work college and have gainful employment for every student. We’re very glad that Kidron is a partner in that process.”