Broome Senior High School recently installed 499 solar panels which are estimated to save the school approximately $350,000 in electricity costs each year.
Western Australian Energy Minister Bill Johnston said the installation was the largest rooftop solar powered system under the McGowan Government’s Solar Schools program for regional and remote schools.
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The massive $1.3 million installation is located on five of the school’s roofs and will use 12 inverters.
The installation includes a solar web tool, which allows for real time monitoring. This will enable students to engage with the technology and link this to their learning in the classroom.
Stage two of the Solar Schools Program is currently underway with a further 28 schools in the Kimberley and Pilbara regions receiving solar installations as part of the $44.6 million Schools Clean Energy Technology Fund. The investment supports the McGowan Government’s aim to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The successful program is delivered through a partnership between the Department of Education and Horizon Power to deliver rooftop solar power to schools.
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Minister Johnston said,”Solar Schools is a wonderful partnership between Horizon Power and the Department of Education, which is helping to deliver cleaner, greener energy solutions for our remote and regional schools.
“Our government is committed to a renewable energy future. As well as reducing energy costs, Solar Schools is contributing towards our state’s transition to a low carbon future.”
