Figures show Kilkenny schools set to lead the Irish solar revolution

There has been a huge response from Kilkenny schools to the Government’s free Solar for Schools programme.

Of the 90 schools in Kilkenny that were invited to apply, Department of Education figures show 84 have already expressed an interest in availing of the scheme, which is providing free solar panels for schools around the country.

Green Party TD for Carlow Kilkenny and Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Malcolm Noonan, has welcomed the huge interest from local schools.

“In December of last year, I wrote to every school in Kilkenny to let them know the Solar for Schools programme had launched and to encourage them to apply, so I’m thrilled with the huge response from our local schools – just over 93% of them have submitted expressions of interest,” he said.

“Each school will get 6 kilowatts of roof-mounted solar PV panels for free from the Government, which equates to around 16 solar panels, and installations are due to be underway by the summer.

“These schools will now save money on their electricity bills while doing their bit for the climate, and there’s still time for the remaining schools to avail of this fantastic scheme.

“As well as saving on energy costs and reducing emissions, it’s a really excellent opportunity for schools to teach students about the role of renewable energy in helping Ireland reach our climate goals. They’ll have a practical, real-world demonstration in their school, and it might inspire them to bring home what they’re learning to their parents.”

With grants of up to €2,100 available for the purchase of solar panels for home, Minister of State Noonan said he expects the scheme to generate a lot of discussion about the benefits and savings of solar energy, and increase the uptake among the wider community.

VAT
“Last year, the Greens removed VAT from solar panels which is now saving people an additional €1,000 on their installations,” he said.

“Thousands of homes across Ireland are getting solar panels installed every month and with the payback period being as low as six years now, there are massive savings to be had.

“You can reduce your energy bills, protect yourself from global energy price spikes we’ve seen in recent years, and make some money by selling excess electricity back to the grid, all while doing your bit for climate action. It’s a win-win for schools and for householders.”