Now, Kerala to have solar powered schools soon
- Project will be implemented in government schools
- The scheme aims to empower schools with sustainable energy
- Government schools will start generating solar power from next academic year
FollowAfter successfully implementing organic farming in campuses, Kerala schools are now empowering themselves with sustainable energy. The state government is getting ready to help schools generate solar power from next academic year.
In the first phase, the project will be implemented in government schools. Agency for Non-conventional Energy and Rural Technology (ANERT) will provide assistance to schools to switch to solar energy.
Solar panels will be given at 50% subsidy to install on the rooftops. "This scheme will help schools generate sustainable energy. It will also help them achieve financial stability in the years ahead," Power Minister M M Mani said.
"After industries, it is the schools and colleges that consumer power to a great quantity. Schools have extensive rooftops, and it is an ideal location to install solar panels.
ANERT will provide solar panels at a subsidised rate to schools," ANERT district engineer P Sirajuddin said.
Solar Smart Grid Connect of ANERT will give assistance to schools to install and maintain solar panels. A system that could generate two kilowatts of power will cost ₹95, 000 and every 100 kilowatts above this will cost extra.
"Solar energy is sustainable and cost effective in the long term. It is a key component of the sustainable strategy," he said.
This is not the first time that schools in Kerala are installing solar panels on their rooftops. As many as 20 schools, mainly aided schools, have installed panels at a minimal level.
The government had earlier implemented the organic vegetable farming project in the schools to ensure supply of safe to eat vegetables in the state. Students were encouraged to set up vegetable farms in the backyards of the schools and seeds, and all other assistance were provided free of cost. The comprehensive organic vegetable farming project was a huge success as almost all the schools in the state became part of the initiative.
