All schools in Laois can now apply for free solar panels under a new programme that could see schools save thousands of euro on energy bills.
The Solar for Schools Programme is funded by the Climate Action Fund, which the Government say is in line with their “recognition that taking action on climate change is central to Ireland’s social and economic development.”
The solar photovoltaic (PV) panels in schools will be connected to the electricity grid so that solar energy can power other homes and businesses when schools are closed at weekends and during school holidays.
The typical amount a school can save will depend on a number of factors.
A hypothetical school with a 6 kW Solar PV installation could expect to save approximately between €1,200 and €1,600 per annum on their bill, including credit for their electricity export.
The overall programme will see up to 24 megawatts of installed renewable energy provision on schools with associated savings estimated at €5.5 million per year across 4,000 schools nationwide.
Monitoring software is also being provided to each school to allow review and discussion of the energy generated each day for staff and students.
All school principals and Boards of Management in Laois are encouraged to follow up on this fully funded project in an attempt to reduce electricity bills.
Laois Fianna Fáil TD Seán Fleming, Minister of State, said: “I have seen the PV panels in place in many of the schools that I have visited.
“I believe the Solar for Schools Programme will accelerate the installation of PV panels on the roofs of homes and businesses because people can see the benefits of renewable energy in action in their local school buildings.
SEE ALSO – LoveLaois Podcast: Transition Year Series – Megan Kavanagh (Scoil Chríost Rí)
