Expansion of Solar for Schools Programme to Mayo

FIANNA Fáil Minister Dara Calleary has welcomed the expansion of the Solar for Schools Programme to include eligible schools in Mayo.

The scheme provides eligible schools with up to 6 kilowatts peak of roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) installations on their roofs, which equates to approximately 14 solar panels.

Since the launch of the first phase of the programme late last year, more than 1,100 schools have been approved for PV panels on their roofs in 11 areas around the country.

Minister Calleary said: “I am delighted to receive confirmation that funding has been approved to proceed with solar PV installations on all remaining eligible schools in Mayo. The Solar for Schools Scheme is a win-win because it is saving schools money and reducing their carbon footprint.”

Up to 4,000 primary, post-primary and special schools in the country are now all eligible for PV panels.

The panels in schools are being connected to the electricity grid, so that solar energy can power other homes and businesses when schools are closed at weekends and during holidays.

The typical amount a school can save will depend on a number of factors. However, by way of example, a school with a 6 kW solar PV installation could expect to save in the region of €1,200-€1,600 per annum on their bill, including credit for their electricity export.

Monitoring software is also being provided to each school to allow review and discussion of the energy generated each day for staff and students.