The installation of the largest rooftop solar powered system under the Government of Western Australia’s Solar Schools program for regional and remote schools has been completed.
Broome Senior High School’s new system consists of 499 solar panels which are estimated to save the school approximately $350,000 in electricity costs each year.
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 successful program is delivered through a partnership between the Department of Education and Horizon Power to deliver rooftop solar power to schools.
Education Minister Dr Tony Buti said the solar panels will reduce the school’s carbon emissions and energy costs.
“It will also provide further teaching and learning opportunities for students and staff in STEM areas which is exciting.”
The $5 million Solar Schools program will provide rooftop solar systems to 30 regional public schools throughout Western Australia. The program will reduce the school’s greenhouse gas emissions by more than 2,000 tonnes each year – the equivalent of taking around 400 cars off the road.
