The Andrews Labor Government will put solar panels on government schools, helping them become more environmentally sustainable and reduce electricity costs.
Member for Southern Metropolitan Region, Nina Taylor, today announced that applications are now open for the Greener Government School Buildings program, to install solar panels systems at Victorian government schools.
The Greener Government School Buildings program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at schools and to upgrade school facilities to become more energy efficient and sustainable.
Solar panels are strategic investments that will pay for themselves within a few years. This program will remove the upfront costs of installing a system that may otherwise discourage schools from pursuing this option.
The Greener Government School Buildings program follows the success of a pilot program rolled out across 42 schools in 2019.
By October 2020, the solar panels installed in schools as part of the pilot will have generated more than 1,300 megawatts of electricity, reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 1,600 tonnes and saved schools more than $300,000 in electricity bills.
Schools can apply for a solar panel system at www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au. Applications close on 7 August.
“We’re taking action to make our schools more sustainable and more energy efficient.”
“Not only will the environment benefit from this program – installing solar panel systems will help reduce power bills for our schools.”
—Minister for Education James Merlino
“This program is another practical way we are helping reduce emissions and do our bit for the environment.”
—Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“I urge all government schools in Southern Metro to apply for these solar panel grants.”
—Member for Southern Metropolitan Region Nina Taylor