Muskingum University has installed a 75-kilowatt, 297-solar panel system on the roof of its Recreation Center to save on energy costs.

The panel will generate energy for the building and is estimated to save around $15,000 annually in utility costs.

The solar panel project cost was approximately $290,000, which was paid by the capital improvement funds from the university.

Third Sun Solar, an Ohio based company, installed the solar panels.

The university now plans to add similar panels to Walter Hall, The Palmer Art Gallery, Thomas Hall and a six-acre ground level project at the softball fields.

However, the weather could act as spoilsport for the project as Sunlight is not available 24 hours a day. This might result in the generation of little amount of energy.

Muskingum University, founded in 1837, is a private four-year comprehensive college. The institution's name was changed from 'Muskingum College' to 'Muskingum University' in June 2009.

The university offers more than 40 academic majors to around 1,700 undergraduate students. Recently, it has introduced programs in digital media design, criminal justice and engineering including a new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) program.

Muskingum's graduate programs are also offered in education and management information systems, strategy and technology.

The university comprises of 21 buildings, a football stadium and a small lake, which sits on a 225 acres of land.