Solar and Batteries in Schools
Over two decades ago, the Solar Schools initiative was established with the aim of assisting schools in effectively monitoring and managing their energy consumption while also imparting knowledge about energy to students. The initiative has proven to be highly successful in empowering both students and schools to take control of their energy usage.
By the year 2023, the 600 schools participating in the program had collectively reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 45,000 tons, resulting in significant savings of approximately $7.8 million for taxpayers. However, as technology becomes more prevalent in Australian schools, the demand for energy continues to rise steadily.
Advocating for Solar Energy and Battery Installation
Rob Bruer, the co-founder and CEO of Solar Schools, advocates for the widespread installation of solar panels and batteries in every school across the country. He emphasises the importance of integrating solar energy into the national energy mix and incorporating energy literacy into school curricula.
The Role of Solar Energy in Education
As technology usage in schools increases, so does the energy consumption. Solar energy presents a sustainable solution to meet the growing energy needs of educational institutions while also promoting environmental consciousness among students. By embracing solar power and battery storage, schools can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also save on energy costs in the long run.
The SwitchedOn Australia Podcast, supported by Reclaim Energy, delves into the benefits of solar energy and the necessity of its integration into school infrastructure. Anne Delaney, the host of the podcast and Electrification Editor, brings her wealth of experience in journalism, documentary filmmaking, and art to the discussion on sustainable energy practices.
