Cranbourne government schools are set to become greener and more environmentally sustainable while reducing their electricity costs, thanks to a new State Government solar program.
Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards announced on Wednesday 10 March that Rangebank Primary School is among 171 government schools across Victoria that will receive solar power systems under the Greener Government School Buildings program.
The $8.8 million program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at schools and save them money by installing solar power systems, while also contributing to the State Government’s goal of net zero emissions by 2050.
The program removes the upfront costs of installing a system that may otherwise discourage schools from pursuing this option.
“This is a project that will make a big difference for our schools. It will cut emissions while at the same time cutting costs and that is good news for everyone,” Ms Richards said.
The Greener Government School Buildings program stems from the success of the pilot program rolled out across 42 schools in 2019.
The solar power systems installed as part of the 2020-21 Greener Government School Buildings program are expected to see 6,974 kW of solar installed, with an estimated saving of $1.8 million per year and 10,200 tonnes of carbon emissions abated.
By June 2022, in total the program is expected to see 8,200 kW of solar installed, with an estimated saving of $2 million per year and 11,500 tonnes of carbon emissions abated.
