Green TD Steven Matthews has welcomed the strong demand for the free school solar panel scheme in Wicklow that was launched in November 2023 and will enable schools across County Wicklow to make the transition towards renewable sources of energy. This follows the confirmation that 69 out of 108 (64%) Wicklow schools have applied for funding under the first phase of the scheme with many more expected to sign up in the coming months. Welcoming the progress of this scheme, Deputy Matthews said:
“I am delighted to see that so many schools across Wicklow have applied for funding to install free solar PV panels. Over 60% of eligible schools in Wicklow have already applied. I strongly advocated for Wicklow’s inclusion in the first phase of the scheme, and it is very rewarding to see that there is a very high level of interest in its rollout. The scheme will provide all schools with 6 kilowatts of roof-mounted solar PV, which equates to approximately 16 solar panels. The full cost of installing the solar panels will be paid for entirely by the state’s Climate Action Fund with no additional costs incurred by participating schools.
“The provision of free solar panels for schools is a very practical measure that the Green Party introduced in Budget 2023 to assist schools with rising energy costs. The rapid installation of solar panels on schools and other buildings is also crucial to achieving our climate objectives.
“I am in regular contact with school principals across Wicklow and in any case where there have been questions in how to apply, we were able to work through them and complete the application process. If there are any schools that have yet to apply, I would be more than happy to assist with any concerns”, Deputy Matthews concluded.
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