89% Of Wicklow Schools on Track for Free Solar Panels

There has been a strong level of demand for the Schools PV Programme with 89 schools across Wicklow progressing to tender to date and will shortly see panels on their rooftops.

A further 11 schools have initiated their application but are slightly behind in in the process. 

The scheme will provide participating 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.

Discussing the progress of this scheme, Deputy Steven Matthews said:

“I strongly advocated for Wicklow’s inclusion in the first phase of the school solar rollout, and it is very rewarding to see that there is a high level of interest in its rollout. 

The ultimate goal is to get rooftop solar panels on every school in Wicklow. 

This is a very practical measure that will assist schools with their energy costs, reduce carbon emissions and encourage the wider roll-out of solar PV in Wicklow. 

“Many communities in Wicklow will see the installation of solar panels on local schools by September.

 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.

Schools are at the centre of our communities, and it makes sense that schools will be at the forefront of Ireland's solar rollout.

The transition to renewable energy sources will allow schools to reduce their energy bills and take action on climate change.

“In recent days I have written to all schools including those yet to apply for the free solar panel scheme to offer my support with any issues in the application and installation process.

In the last few months, I have worked directly with a number of schools on specific concerns related to their application and in each instance, we were able to work through them and complete the application process”, concluded Deputy Matthews.