Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
624. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Education the position regarding the number of schools in County Wicklow that have initiated applications for solar panel funding under the free national roll-out; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1368/24]
View answerThe first phase of the Schools PV Programme was launched on 23rd November 2023.
It will provide eligible schools with a 6 kilowatts peak of roof-mounted solar PV, which equates to approximately 16 solar panels.
There has been a strong uptake from schools in Co Wicklow to date, with 69 schools out of 108 submitting expressions of interest in the first phase of the scheme since the scheme opened on 30 November 2023.
There has been a really positive response in terms of applications for solar panels from schools. It offers an opportunity for schools to reduce their carbon emissions and to reduce their energy costs.
Schools will have to submit evidence of obtaining three quotations by March 15 and the target date for installing the solar panels is May 30.
As well as the obvious financial and climate benefits, it is expected that the visibility of the solar panels on schools will also deliver the added benefit of encouraging discussion and uptake of the technology in the wider community.
The Department of Education has developed guidance documentation for the scheme was can be found on their website at gov.ie - Schools Photovoltaic Programme (www.gov.ie)
