Green TD Steven Matthews has called for urgency in the rollout of free solar panels for schools announced as part of Budget 2023. This announcement was widely welcomed by schools and will assist in both reducing our carbon footprint and also reduce the cost of energy for schools across Wicklow.
Speaking about the initiative and calling for the acceleration of its rollout, Deputy Matthews said:
“I strongly support this initiative which was announced as part of Budget 2023. It makes absolute sense that schools will be at the forefront of Ireland's solar rollout. I am frequently contacted by school principals who are facing unprecedented energy bills and want to see solar panel son their schools as soon as possible.
“In recent months, I have had the opportunity to visit a number of schools across Wicklow and believe not only that many would benefit from solar panels but also from a full retrofit. I am working closely with the Department of Education to ensure that as many Wicklow schools as possible are considered for these projects.
“I am delighted that Holy Rosary School in Wicklow town has been selected for one of these retrofit schemes and will continue to advocate for the inclusion of more Wicklow schools into the future. The investment in solar panels and other initiatives are tangible measures that will have a direct and positive impact on these costs for schools and they are future proofed.
“It is vital that this scheme is delivered without delay. I have raised this issue directly with Minister Foley and I have been assured that following an assessment of demand for solar panels, the Department will be able to begin this widespread rollout. I will continue to push for rapid progress in this area and will be raising the matter in the Dáil shortly, with the support of my Green Party colleagues. I look forward to seeing this transformation in towns and villages in Wicklow and across the country,” Deputy Matthews concluded.
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