Solar-Powered Education Institutions: Essential Insights Revealed
In the ongoing quest to combat climate change, schools across the United States are increasingly turning to solar power as a viable and beneficial solution. The facilities director, with their intimate knowledge of the school's roof and land space, utility bills, and previous considerations of solar power, plays a pivotal role in making this transition happen [1].
According to Generation180, a clean energy nonprofit that tracks solar school data, more than 8,500 schools in the U.S. have already embraced solar power, with the number doubling since 2015 [7]. Nearly 90% of this solar capacity is financed through a third-party ownership model, making it accessible for schools with limited upfront capital [2].
One of the most compelling reasons for schools to adopt solar power is the significant cost savings it offers. By reducing electricity bills, schools can expect annual savings of thousands of pounds/dollars, with lifetime savings over £200,000/$100,000+. Moreover, solar power provides budgeting stability, protecting school budgets from rising utility rates and energy price volatility [1][3][4].
Solar power offers more than just financial benefits. It serves as a valuable educational resource, particularly in STEM learning and career education. Students can monitor real-time energy production and consumption, engage in hands-on learning about photovoltaic technology, and develop sustainability awareness and green career skills [1][5].
Contrary to popular belief, solar power remains viable in regions with less sunshine. Modern photovoltaic systems perform adequately under varying weather conditions, though energy output is somewhat reduced. Schools in such areas often combine solar with battery storage or grid connections to ensure reliable power and cost savings [4][5].
The Department of Energy offers resources for schools going solar, including the Efficient and Healthy Schools program, which provides resources for conducting solar feasibility studies and answering questions about the process [6]. Moreover, the Inflation Reduction Act makes schools eligible for the solar investment tax credit, which can pay up to 60% of solar program costs [8].
Students are motivated by the desire to positively impact climate change and see their schools model clean energy. Public school leaders are encouraged to consult with their facilities director to discuss the school's needs, previous considerations of solar power, and potential challenges [1].
Generation180, led by Senior Program Director Tish Tablan, offers a guide and resources for schools going solar, including data, maps, and a solar schools help desk [9]. They also provide resources for discussing climate change with students and teachers.
In summary, solar power offers significant cost savings for schools, provides real-world learning opportunities, and remains technically feasible even in less sunny climates. With its numerous benefits, it's no wonder that solar power is becoming an increasingly popular choice for schools across the nation.
References:
[1] Generation180. (n.d.). Solar in Schools. Retrieved from https://www.generation180.org/solar-in-schools
[2] NREL. (2019). U.S. School Solar Market Report 2019. Retrieved from https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy19osti/75134.pdf
[3] SEIA. (2021). The Value of Solar Energy. Retrieved from https://www.seia.org/research-resources/the-value-of-solar-energy
[4] NREL. (2020). Solar for Schools: A Guide for School Administrators. Retrieved from https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy20osti/77628.pdf
[5] DOE. (n.d.). Solar Schools. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-schools
[6] DOE. (n.d.). Efficient and Healthy Schools. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/efficient-healthy-schools
[7] Generation180. (n.d.). Solar Schools Map. Retrieved from https://www.generation180.org/solar-schools-map
[8] Inflation Reduction Act. (2022). Residential Energy Efficiency and Electrification Provisions. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/eere/residential/articles/residential-energy-efficiency-and-electrification-provisions
[9] Generation180. (n.d.). Resources for Schools Going Solar. Retrieved from https://www.generation180.org/resources-for-schools-going-solar
