Western Australia Education Minister Sue Ellery joined Energy Minister Bill Johnston today to announce rooftop solar systems are being rolled out to 28 schools across the north of the state as part of the government’s Solar Schools Program.

Broome North Primary School is the first school to have its solar panels installed under stage two of the successful Solar Schools Program, which is delivered through a partnership between the Department of Education and Horizon Power.

Energy Minister Bill Johnston said it is estimated that the 80.53kW solar array system will save Broome North Primary school more than $78,000 in electricity costs in the first year.

“Through the Solar Schools Program, the McGowan government is delivering on its commitment to a cleaner, greener renewable energy future,” he said. “This program will enable schools to save on electricity costs, with the installation at Broome North Primary School having the potential to save the school well over $78,000 a year.”

The installation of the solar system at the school is part of a long-term investment by Horizon Power that includes the introduction of a community battery located on school grounds just outside the perimeter fence to maximise energy supply and distribution across the wider Broome community.

In addition, the town’s boutique community garden will also be relocated to the same site to enhance the area surrounding the location of the battery. The garden will be managed and maintained by a community group, with discussions taking place with the school board and leadership group.

Broome North Primary School is one of 18 schools in the Kimberley to receive rooftop solar panels, with 10 schools in the Pilbara also set to receive panels under the landmark program.

As part of last year’s Budget announcement, the state government earmarked $4.6 million out of the $44.6 million School’s Clean Energy Technology Fund for Horizon Power to deliver a second stage solar panel program to a further 28 schools.

“Installing solar panels at schools has two major benefits – it reduces that school’s carbon emissions and energy costs, and provides excellent teaching and learning opportunities for students and staff in STEM areas such as solar technology,” Education Minister Sue Ellery said.

“The set-up at Broome North Primary School has the added benefit of a community battery, through a long-term partnership with Horizon Power.

“The McGowan government is proud to be delivering on its commitment to reduce the environmental footprint of schools in the Kimberley and Pilbara through our successful Solar Schools Program.”

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