Thanks to efforts by The Doe Run Company, an innovative natural resources outfit headquartered in Missouri, one high school will soon be able to reap the benefits of energy efficient technologies.

According to STLtoday, Herculaneum High School will be getting $500,000 worth of solar panel installations as well as other eco-friendly upgrades, the likes of which are projected to save the district at least $27,000 in annual power costs. Not only that, but it will provide an opportunity for students to learn about renewable electricity.

After partnering with a local home inspection company that provides energy audits, Doe Run was able to determine which kind of improvements made the most sense for the building. In addition to the solar panels – which should be fully installed by the end of the summer if all goes as planned – the facility will also receive an upgraded HVAC system and new LED lights.

Once the changes have been implemented, students will analyze and monitor the school's energy use as part of their curriculum.

"We're grateful to Doe Run for the ongoing support they provide for our district," said Stan Stratton, superintendent of the Dunklin R-V School District. "Renewable and efficient energy sources are becoming increasingly important in our world, so it is exciting that we have the opportunity to introduce these concepts to our students, who will be tomorrow's scientists, engineers and electricians."

If you're interested in making eco-friendly upgrades to your property, it may actually be more affordable than you think – and the long-term savings almost always make it worthwhile. To get started, contact a home inspection contractor to request an energy audit. These professionals can help you identify the best solutions for your house.