THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL

Fast Facts

Structures -- Four Haven solar shelters with lighting, wheelchair access, and signs.

Places -- The Havens are in two spots on campus in places students gather, next to The Pit and Student Stores, and next to Murray Hall.

Bigger Picture -- Student-led efforts are driving meaningful change in sustainability. Through funding from the Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee (RESPC), UNC-Chapel Hill continues to bring clean energy projects to life on campus. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to environmental responsibility, energy education, and creating a visible culture of innovation in renewable energy.

Spotlight Partners -- Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee

“I have not sat at the tables in weeks... because they are always full! I have even seen students charging their electric scooters. Living up to their name, the tables turned what was an under-loved corner of campus into a haven for students to work, relax, and cleanly recharge.”

UNC-Chapel Hill Student

Project overview

At UNC-Chapel Hill, Haven solar shelters are bringing clean energy - and comfortable, shaded gathering spots - right into the heart of campus life. These structures provide renewable energy while offering students beautiful, functional spaces to study, relax, and recharge (themselves and their devices).

Four Haven solar shelters by Spotlight Solar have been installed at UNC, funded by the Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee (RESPC), which plans and implements renewable energy, energy efficiency, and energy education projects on campus.

Two Havens are located by The Pit and Student Stores, drawing students into daily interactions with solar energy at one of the busiest hubs on campus. Two more by Murray Hall create fresh outdoor spaces for learning and connection.

Murray Hall is also home to a makerspace run by BeAM (Be A Maker). BeAM has an electric golf cart that is charges up on solar power at the Haven shelters.

By combining renewable energy with daily campus life, these solar-powered Havens make sustainability visible, accessible, and a natural part of the student experience.

Plus, they make the perfect shady spot for coffee breaks, group projects, and hanging out between classes.