When the whole world is considering ways to switch over to renewable sources of energy, schools, being the fundamental place of learning, are no exception. Yes, schools have increasingly begun to rely on solar energy for their energy needs.
Through this, along with creating a cleaner source of energy, schools are also helping the local communities. In this blog, you can learn how solar for schools benefits them and the community they live in.
Why are schools using solar?
To reduce electricity bills
When schools start to use solar for their energy needs, the dependence on the conventional grid is reduced. This significantly reduces the electricity bills of schools, which can be efficiently used for school development.
To use clean energy
Greenhouse gases are a great threat to the environment, and the regular fossil-fuel-sourced forms of energy leave us with only this. There is an increased awareness now, due to which schools resort to solar as a means to use clean energy.
Support from the government and solar companies
With widespread awareness about the importance of using renewable energy, there has been increased support from the government in the form of incentives. Solar companies also play a great role in advocating the importance of green energy. All these together help schools proceed with their goal of supporting a clean environment.
Long-term savings
Apart from the initial set-up cost, there isn’t much expenditure associated with solar energy. With the amount of savings in electricity charges, schools can earn a huge ROI. Thus, the use of solar energy in schools leads to long-term savings.
How does solar in schools help the community?
Excess energy can be diverted to the community
During the day, solar panels generate electricity using sunlight, which schools use to meet their energy needs. The excess energy after their use is stored in battery storage, which can be diverted to the homes in the community. This way, the homes can also experience a reduction in power expenditure.
Investment in student welfare
Schools can save a huge sum of money in the long run when they shift to solar power. This can be invested in various activities that can benefit the students. Schools can initiate several developmental activities that were stalled due to a lack of funds.
Raise awareness in the community
The country can achieve energy independence and a greener environment only when every individual makes a shift towards renewable sources of energy. Schools play an important role in creating awareness among the community. They will be a role model when they start using solar energy for schools. More people in the community will join the movement towards a cleaner future.
How solar for schools are a learning for students
Schools are the starting point where students learn about the society they live in and the problems that may arise in the future. They learn about the negative effects of non-renewable energy sources and the ways and means to go green to mitigate climate change.
Solar for schools helps students understand the importance of renewable sources of power. They can see the benefits of solar in real time and realise that it is one of the effective means to put an end to harmful greenhouse gases.
Schools cultivate a concern for the environment the students live. This awareness at the school level makes them ready for the future.
Challenges of setting up solar in schools
Initial cost
Though solar panels for schools are an encouraging factor, not all schools can invest upfront. This can pose a challenge in bringing more schools under the solar cover. Schools fear that the initial costs are high and are apprehensive if they can earn sufficient ROI through solar for schools.
Space on rooftops
The main aspect while setting up solar panels for schools is the availability of rooftop space. Without sufficient space on the rooftop, setting up panels becomes a challenge. There should not be any hindrance to the panels. Also, the roof size, irregular surface, shading from nearby trees, the capacity of roofs to manage weight, etc., are other factors that act as barriers.
Maintenance
Solar panels require regular maintenance by trained professionals. Any accumulated dust and debris, loose connections, dents on the surface, cracks, animal nestings, etc., should be checked periodically. This will involve additional expenditure, and if schools do not take care of maintenance, the life of solar panels will be affected.
Steps to start solar in schools
Partner with a trusted solar company
A reputed solar company can provide end-to-end solar solutions to schools, thereby helping them achieve energy sustainability. Solar companies arrange loans and assist in getting government incentives. Schools should discuss with solar companies to assist them in this process.
Freyr Energy, with over a decade of experience in empowering homes and businesses with a clean and reliable source of energy, can be your trusted partner for switching to solar. We make solar accessible to all with 24/7 assistance through a team of experts.
Site inspection and cost analysis
Another major step is to inspect the site to analyze its suitability. Rooftop solar panels have some specifications that must be followed. Also, a cost analysis that would arrive at the estimated expenditure will help schools to compare with their budget for setting up solar panels for schools.
Conclusion
Solar energy for schools can be a great learning experience for students and the community. They educate on saving precious resources, power, and also sharing it with the community when there are savings.
With more schools switching to solar energy, we can see a positive impact on the community and the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Solar panels for schools can reduce their operating costs and help them become self-sufficient for their energy needs.
With solar for schools, they reduce their dependence on the public grid. Hence, their electricity bills come down to a great extent.
More than 70% of installation and maintenance costs can be covered through solar energy grants for schools.
While the cost depends on the size and type of panels used, typically a 1 kW system can cost between INR 75,000 to 85,000.
