Northern Illinois University recently installed four solar-powered, off-grid charging benches around campus — all donated by a renewable-energy seating company, according to northernpublicradio.org.
These aren’t just benches; they’re mini power hubs featuring:
- Eight total charging ports per bench (4 wireless pads + 4 USB plugs)
- Solar panels with shady overhangs that charge lithium batteries – making the benches fully off-grid.
- Built-in LED lighting and backlit advertising panels, which help NIU benefit from ad revenue to fund sustainability initiatives wifr.com
đź’¬ What Campus Leaders Say
Matt Deitch, program director at NIU’s Sustainability Center, highlighted the power of small innovations:
“It seems so simple… but it’s really innovative. Why don’t we have these at every college campus?” said Matt Deitch
He added that pilot projects like these showcase scalable solutions that could extend beyond campus to the broader Northern Illinois community.
🌱 Bigger Sustainability Impact
This installation is part of NIU’s broader energy conservation strategy. With recent efficiency upgrades, the university is achieving carbon reductions equivalent to planting a forest across the entire campus each year, according to northernpublicradio.org The solar benches are a high-visibility complement to larger, behind-the-scenes initiatives.
đź“Ť Where to Find the Benches
Keep an eye out for them in:
- In front of Cole Hall
- Near the DuSable Hall bus circle
- East and west sides of MLK Commons
They’re great for powering up between classes, waiting for the bus, or just enjoying the outdoors.
Why It Matters for DeKalb
- Real‑world sustainability: These benches give students tangible access to clean energy and show how solar can work in everyday settings.
- Replicable model: Other institutions, parks, or public plazas across DeKalb County can adopt similar off-grid charging for community benefits.
- Funding innovation: With ads helping pay for them, this model could reduce costs for future eco-friendly infrastructure on campus and beyond.
Your Move
- Visit one — snap some solar-powered charging action and tag us on social!
- Think outside NIU — does your favorite DeKalb park or plaza need one of these?
- Share this story with friends, neighbors, and civic leaders who care about sustainability.
By blending utility, tech, and clean energy, these benches offer a glimpse of a greener, smarter campus—and community. Let’s power DeKalb’s future, one solar bench at a time!
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