Solar boost for school

Maungatūroto Primary School (MPS) is one of 500 schools across New Zealand selected as part of the $30 million government-funded Solar on Schools programme.

The school joins Matakohe, Aranga, Dargaville Primary and Ruawai College in the Kaipara District in receiving solar panels and batteries, with a recommended solar system size of 10kWp.

MPS principal Margaret Hutchinson said the school is delighted to have been selected for the programme.

“Our Board of Trustees has discussed installing solar panels in the past. While they have always been on our wish list, other priorities have needed to come first. To be given this opportunity is fantastic and will provide a real benefit to our school,” Hutchinson said.

The programme was created and announced jointly by the Ministry of Education and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) to help provide eligible schools with solar energy systems to help reduce electricity costs and their reliance on the grid, while reducing carbon emissions through renewable energy.

Priority was given to schools facing high energy costs or energy insecurity, those needing greater energy resilience, and those scheduled to replace gas or diesel boilers.

Hutchinson said the school is looking forward to harnessing the solar power to help with the cost of keeping the school swimming pool open to the public during the summer holidays.

“During the summer holidays, our pool pump operates 24/7. This uses a significant amount of electricity. Being able to generate solar power during the summer months, when our electricity consumption is at its highest, will be particularly beneficial.

“We are very grateful for this opportunity and look forward to seeing the benefits that solar power will bring to our school and wider community.”

The solar panels will be installed at the selected schools over a three-year period.