The Victorian Government will install solar panels at government schools, helping them be greener and more environmentally sustainable while reducing electricity costs.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today announced that applications are now open for schools across Eastern Victoria to apply for funding to install solar power systems.

The Greener Government School Buildings program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at schools and to upgrade school facilities to become more energy efficient and sustainable.

A solar power system is a strategic investment that can pay for itself over several years. This program will remove the upfront costs of installing a system that may otherwise discourage schools from pursuing this option.

The Greener Government School Buildings program follows the success of a pilot program rolled out across 42 schools in 2019 which generated on a yearly basis more than 1,200 megawatts of electricity, reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 1,300 tonnes and saved schools more than $270,000 in electricity bills.

Schools can apply for a solar panel system at www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au. Applications close on Friday 8 October.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino:

“We’re taking action to make our schools more sustainable and more energy efficient so we can all do our bit for the environment.”

“Not only will the environment benefit from this program – installing solar panel systems will help reduce power bills for our schools.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing:

“Following the success of our pilot program, the rollout of solar panels for more government schools across Eastern Victoria will keep our school buildings and infrastructure working hard to generate energy and contribute to Victoria’s renewable energy supply. This is also a really great way for students to learn first-hand about the differences we can all make to reduce emissions and improve sustainability.”