Lissan pupils save up their energy!
THE pupils of Lissan Primary School just outside Cookstown are proving they're committed to going green after the installation of solar panels.
The school has recently ‘switched on’ to renewable energy by installing a photovoltaic system on the south facing roof.
As part of the Switched on Schools programme, Lissan Primary School has fitted a 5kWp system of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on its roof to create clean, environmentally friendly electricity from sunlight and help reduce the school’s running costs.
The Switched on Schools programme is funded by Northern Ireland Electricity’s SMART programme, the North Eastern Education and Library Board and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s (DARD) Programme for Building Sustainable Prosperity (PBSP).
The scheme not only installs renewable technology in rural schools but it also provides learning tools for pupils which allow them to monitor how much energy is being produced.
Mr Terry McKenna, Principal of Lissan PS said fitting the solar panels was an opportunity not only to save on energy costs but also to educate the pupils.
"We realise the importance of educating our pupils about sustainability and the environment. The installation of PV at the school is a constant reminder to the pupils, teachers and parents that we can all play a part in protecting our future,” he explained.
The panels will produce around 9,000 units of electricity each year, a significant saving for the school on their energy bills.
Kathryn Kyle from NIE Energy who visited the school said that she is delighted Lissan has adopted this environmentally friendly energy source.
And Vince McKevitt, Head of DARD’s PBSP programme said this is an innovative project which places renewable energy at the heart of rural schools.
Robert McCreery, from the Southern Education and Library Board also visited the school.
He said the Board is committed to reducing C02 emissions and has been introducing renewable energy technologies where possible in schools and colleges throughout the area.
To find out more about saving energy and renewable energy solutions for your home, school or business check out the NIE Energy website www.nie-yourenergy.co.uk.
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Wednesday 23 May 2012
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