Up to 4,000 schools eligible for free solar panels to slash energy bills

The scheme provides eligible schools with up to 6 kilowatts peak of roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, which equates to approximately 14 solar panels

Up to 4,000 schools around the country are now eligible for free solar panels to reduce carbon emissions and potentially save millions on energy bills.

The Solar for Schools programme has now been extended to an additional 16 counties, reaching all primary, post-primary, and special schools in Ireland.

The scheme provides eligible schools with up to 6 kilowatts peak of roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, which equates to approximately 14 solar panels.

More than 1,100 schools have been approved for solar panels since the launch of the programme last year.

The move has been a “rooftop revolution” that has helped schools reduce their carbon emissions, according to Education Minister Norma Foley.

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“It also has the potential to save our schools millions of euro on their energy bills, not just for one year, but every year.” 

"I am therefore delighted today to announce that every school in the country can now apply for the Solar for Schools programme, as we launch this second and final phase,” she added.

“I believe the Solar for Schools programme will accelerate the installation of PV panels on the roofs of homes and businesses because people can see the benefits of renewable energy in action in their local school buildings.” 

The Solar for Schools programme is funded by the Government’s Climate Action Fund.

The typical amount a school saves with the panels depends on a number of factors.

A school with a 6 kW solar PV installation can expect to save in the region of €1,200-1,600 per year on its energy bill, including credit for electricity export.

The overall programme will see up to 24 megawatts of installed renewable energy provision on schools, with associated savings in the region of €5.5 million per year.

The PV panels are also connected to the electricity grid, so solar energy can power other homes and businesses when schools are closed on weekends and during school holidays.

The project has cost less than expected so far and will easily pay for itself with the money saved, according to Minister of State at the Department of the Environment Ossian Smyth.

“I am looking forward to schools around the country getting the benefit of lower energy bills while helping Ireland meet our climate targets.” 

The final phase of the scheme will open for applications on Monday, November 11.

All remaining eligible schools will be contacted by the Department of Education and invited to apply from that date.