Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 May 2016
188. Deputy Josepha Madigan asked the Minister for Education and Skills to consider installing solar panels in schools as a form of energy for heating and water and as a potential cost saving; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11693/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that my Department is at the forefront of design with respect to sustainable energy in school buildings and this performance has been recognised at both National and International level with sustainable energy awards for excellence in Design and Specification.
My Department's Technical Guidance Documents (TGDs) set the benchmark for sustainable design in school buildings with a clear focus on energy efficiency and they are based on solid energy research projects. The Department's policy is supported by a strong research programme with forty six research projects at various stages including its joint Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland (SEAI) partnership energy website project www.energyineducation.ie. Schools that are designed and built in accordance with the Department's TGDs for schools must achieve an A3 Building Energy Rating.
Research and trials of hot water generation in schools have shown that solar thermal generation is not considered an optimum design solution for schools due to schools operating profile i.e. closed during summer months, mid-term, short days and closed for weekends, together with the minimum and irregular hot water demand present.
The potential for renewables in schools is under continued review as part of my Department's Energy Research Programme through continued research and by monitoring improvements in technology and changes in the market place.
