Student Initiative Powers Solar Transformation at Southern New Hampshire University with Sunbolt Solar Workstation

In a powerful example of grassroots sustainability, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) has installed its first Sunbolt solar-powered charging station, made possible by a student-led initiative and a donation from former university President Paul LeBlanc. Installed just before commencement at the edge of a popular campus greenspace, the Sunbolt VelocityLT Solar Workstation gives students a weatherproof, ADA-accessible location to gather, charge devices, and enjoy the outdoors, all powered by renewable solar energy.

"This is exactly the kind of community-led impact Sunbolt was built to support," said Vanessa Branco, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at Sunbolt. "When students take the lead on sustainable infrastructure, they not only transform their campuses, they inspire others to rethink what clean energy can look like in everyday life."

Driven entirely by SNHU's Environmental Club executive board, the project was developed as a way to leave a lasting impact on campus. After attending the AASHE Sustainability Conference in 2024, the students identified solar-powered furniture as a way to promote wellness, environmental awareness, and outdoor engagement for tech-connected students. After evaluating several options, they chose Sunbolt's VelocityLT for its all-weather durability, fast installation, and accessible design.

The charging station features 120V outlets, USB and USB-C ports, fully powered by integrated solar panels, and includes a custom plaque that reads: "To let the sun recharge your devices & recharge your minds."

Since its installation, the workstation has seen near-constant use, even during the quieter summer months, demonstrating strong demand for sustainable, student-centric infrastructure.

"This table is about bridging the gap between our digital lives and the natural world," said Jade Kosa, SNHU Environmental Club Vice President and project lead. "We wanted to give students a way to spend more time outside and the opportunity to grow their love for nature, even when they have to be tied to their screens."

SNHU has taken significant steps toward sustainability in recent years, with multiple LEED-certified buildings and a STARS Bronze rating. While future solar deployments are still under discussion, Sunbolt hopes this initial installation will serve as a model for other universities looking to combine climate goals with tangible, student-led action.

Sunbolt workstations are installed at colleges and universities across the country, helping to meet institutional sustainability targets while improving access to power, wellness spaces, and outdoor learning environments.

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