Federal member for Richmond Justine Elliot this week visited St Joseph’s Primary School in Tweed Heads, to inspect its $46,500 14kW solar power system installed with funding from the Government’s National Solar Schools Program.
“The Solar Schools Program allows students to enjoy the benefits of using smarter cleaner energy first hand and learn about energy efficiency,” said Justine.
St Joseph’s Primary School has installed a web-based metering system, which allows students to see the renewable energy generated from the solar panels and monitor their energy consumption. The school also plans to incorporate the data into class lesson plans.
Under the National Solar Schools Program, grants of up to $50,000 are awarded to eligible primary and secondary schools to install solar and other renewable power systems, rainwater tanks and a range of energy efficiency measures.
“Locally 34 schools have already been funded and shared in $1.33 million thanks to the National Solar Schools Program,” said Justine.
The Australian Government, in partnership with the states and territories, is working with schools to implement these measures to build a more sustainable energy future for Australia.
This funding is part of the more than $1 billion that Justine Elliot has delivered for local roads, schools, health and community resources.
Further information about the National Solar Schools Program is available at: www.climatechange.gov.au/nationalsolarschools/.
