Schools in Epping and across Victoria are being invited to apply for the installation of solar panels, as part of a state government initiative to help lower electricity costs and increase environmental sustainability.
The initiative, which is executed through the Greener Government School Buildings programme, allows for solar panel systems to be introduced into government schools.
In a statement inviting schools to apply, Education Minister James Merlino said the main aim of the programme was to enable schools to benefit from a reduction in emissions of greenhouse gas while also upgrading facilities.
He said schools may have been put off in the past when considering the installation of solar panels due to the associated upfront costs, but the latest programme is considered a strategic investment that will, within several years, eventually pay for itself. Brochure printing services are often used to create informational materials highlighting the purposes and details of schemes such as this.
Last year, the programme was rolled out to 42 schools as part of a pilot scheme. It is estimated that by October this year, the solar panels would have saved participating schools in excess of $300,000 in electricity costs. In addition, emissions of greenhouse gas will have reduced by 1,600 tonnes.
August 7 is the deadline for applications from schools wishing to participate in the programme. Further details are available at the School Buildings Victoria government website.
