Free solar panels for Kilkenny schools

Kilkenny schools will be among the first in the country to have the opportunity to avail of free solar panels under a new government scheme.

Green Party TD for Kilkenny and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD, is urging schools across the county to apply for solar panels funded by the Government’s Climate Action Fund when applications open next week.

Speaking about Kilkenny’s inclusion in phase one of the rollout, Minister Noonan said that it 'is a great, practical measure, and an incredible opportunity for schools across the county to reduce both their energy bills and their carbon footprint'.

"It also gives us the chance to educate students about the role of renewable energy in helping Ireland reach its climate goals, so as well as providing free solar PV panels to schools, the scheme includes monitoring software and teaching materials so that students and staff can track how much energy is being generated each day," he added.

“The other huge advantage for schools is that their solar PV panels will also have the potential to feed surplus energy back into the electricity grid, so as well as saving money on their energy costs, schools can potentially generate income by helping to power homes and businesses with clean energy when the schools are closed at weekends and during school holidays.

“In terms of the potential for saving money, there are a number of factors to consider, but the average school with a 6 kW Solar PV installation could expect to save between €1,200 and €1,600 per year on their bill when the money they’ve earned for selling electricity to the grid is taken into account.

“I can’t imagine there is any school principal in Kilkenny who won’t be interested in availing of this scheme. It’s practical, it’s smart, and it’s win-win – schools across the county will now see their electricity bills drop while they also do their bit for the climate.”

Green Party Councillor for Kilkenny Maria Dollard said that she was delighted that Kilkenny schools will have the opportunity to lead by example in Phase One of this scheme.

"We need to act now to protect our children’s future and ensure our younger generations are educated in climate-neutral energy resources," she said.

 "When a school powers its lights and whiteboards for free using the power of the sun, it means lower bills and more money for schools, and I can’t wait to see the transformative impact for schools in the city and beyond."