Solar panels for Northern Ireland school

Cooley Primary School in Sixmilecross now has solar photovoltaic panels on its south-facing roof, a 10kWp system that will be able to produce around 8,000 units of electricity each year.

This will save the school around £800 a year in energy bills, and will allow pupils to see renewable energy at work up close.

The scheme was funded by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and supported by Northern Ireland Electricity’s (NIE) Smart programme.

NIE’s Claire Carson said: “Renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies have the potential to substantially reduce the amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted, helping to prevent climate change.

“This 10kWp system will substantially reduce the carbon dioxide emitted into the local environment by around five tonnes.

“In recent years schools have become enthusiastic adopters of renewable energy, demonstrating a range of sustainable energy solutions such as solar, wind, biomass and geothermal. We look forward to continuing our work with the Education Boards to promote renewable energy alternatives in schools throughout Northern Ireland.”

Earlier this year, it was announced that more than £1.3 million would be invested in alternative energy at 35 rural schools in Northern Ireland.

Ben Meggeson