Solar in Schools!

Compiled by Sune Diedericks

With the rising issues revolving Eskom and our planet burning out due to global warming (a topic for another day), it’s difficult to ignore the fact that we have to start looking at other alternatives for energy. Solar panels are not only synonymous with households and commercial use, but we can also start focusing on “going green” with our education, health and transport sectors.
 
In light of the new school year kicking off this week (no pun intended), let’s have a look at what advantages solar energy can have to schools and other educational institutions in our communities.

Solar power can help reduce operating costs for the schools.
Using a free source of energy, such as solar power, the schools can avoid the prices hikes in electricity. Even though the initial system will be costly, over time the school will get a return on their investment. As indicated by the study journal of Environmental Research Letters, solar panels can meet up to 75% of the electricity needs of the school.
 
Solar power can help with popularity and enrollment of schools.
From banning plastic straws, to the ever-evolving vegan community, being labeled as an eco-conscious school that is self-sustainable in our modern era can be a distinguishing factor. With global warming rising and social responsibility toward institutions being an obligation and no longer an act of kindness, it can be to great advantage for the school that learners wants to be associated with an eco-minded school. 

​"...it’s difficult to ignore the fact 
that we have to start looking at
​ other alternatives for energy..."

​Solar power can have an educational benefit. 
Students can get first-hand experience of solar energy and how it is used. From learning about energy, the sun, financial saving to how different tilts are used, there are many ways of using solar as an educational tool. But solar does not only benefit on an educational level, it can also shape the minds for our leaders of tomorrow. Solar power in our schools can create awareness and model the young minds to become eco-minded and ensuring our future is green.
 
Improving our environment. 
The study conducted by the Environmental Research Letters, states that solar energy in our schools can reduce the education sector’s carbon footprint by up to 28%. 
 
Environmental, financial, educational, and so much more advantages are linked to solar energy. With our economy that is taking a dip, to our lights being switched off, we need to start focusing on how to ensure that our children will not be influenced by these factors. By teaching them about solar energy from an early age and introducing them to these solutions we can ensure a brighter future.

---

Sources Consulted:
https://gosunbolt.com/solar-benefits-for-schools/
https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/benefits-of-solar-panels-for-schools-and-universities.php
https://news.energysage.com/solar-panels-for-schools-how-k-12s-and-universities-can-benefit-from-solar/
https://news.stanford.edu/2019/05/02/happens-schools-go-solar