Ontario Schools - Gov't grants for solar/wind turbine

Solar for Schools, and for Student Curriculums

An improved carbon footprint and a healthier operating line is now available to Ontario schools with the $50 million Ontario Government funding program. The prospects of developing a hands-on curriculum can serve as a constant reminder of the environment, climate change and the importance of conservation for the next generation of community leaders.

$50 Million Allocated By

Ontario Government for Renewable Energy Initiatives

The grants allocated by the Ontario Ministry of Education for the installation of renewable energy solutions has resulted in an array of renewable energy projects that are now on line.

These projects have reduced heating, cooling and electrical costs in many schools, and have been a boon to student learning in the renewable energy segment.

And all the while the sustainable energy that has been generated has been powering the electricity needs of many communities across the Province.

Kudo's to all who had a hand in these projects.

David Susuki Public School in Windsor

Fundraising the number one activity for school councils.

Solar now a viable option.

In 2009/10 surveys, the majority of Ontario schools reported fundraising was where they spent the bulk of their time. Councils report raising money to cover the costs of everything from field trips and building upgrades to the basics of computers, text books and classroom supplies, while parents struggle to raise funds for graduation ceremonies and student awards.

Apart from fund raising, most schools also need to charge incremental fees for activities such as athletics, science classes and music sessions in order to make ends meet.

Funds raised at the school level now total over $500 million, and while there is still a significant gap between the top and bottom fundraising schools even the top performers report serious deficits.

One solution that schools are now seeming to tap into is the revenue being driven to their operating lines through sustainable energy production.

Under the provinces Feed-In-Tariff program over 150 schools across the province are either up and running or in the construction process.

There has been endless discussion on finding new and innovative ways to increase school revenue, and this is clearly one to get excited about – while at the same time providing a real learning opportunity for the student body.

First ray of sunshine converted!

The French Catholic school board's newest Sault Ste. Marie learning centre will be innovative and energy efficient.

The Sudbury-based board, Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario (CSCNO), announced this week that Notre-Dame-des-Ecoles, undergoing a $10-million expansion, has produced its first kilowatt hour (kWh) of energy through solar panels installed on its roof.

The solar panels have the capacity to produce about 14,000 kWh of electricity annually, says the board, the electricity valued at as much as $11,200 per year.

The program is part of an Ontario Ministries of Education and Research and Innovation green school pilot promoting the use of innovative ecological technology.

Notre-Dame-des-Ecoles has a history of allowing the government to test various innovative ecological technologies and products.

Multiple Options for Schools When Considering sustainable Energy Options

To reduce budget costs while providing a source of educational input schools have been deciding on which types of renewable energy projects they wish to install.

The list of viable opportunities numbers 5 options.

Two of these, Solar PV and Small Wind, are eligible for OPA funding incentives that drive revenue directly back into the schools operating line.

Solar PV incentives are 80.2 cents per kWh of energy produced when sold back into the grid.

Small Wind incentives are 13.5 cents per kWh when produced and sold back.

Learn more about the 5 options …

If you are considering a solar project for your school remember that the vender you select must be RET approved to qualify for any Ministry contibutions.

Ottawa Schools Band Together

The Ottawa Carleton District School Board has announced it is installing solar photovoltaic panels on the rooftops of Ottawa schools to generate extra revenue under Ontario’s new microFIT program.

Each of the 13 10-kilowatt micro systems will produce about 11,500 kilowatt-hours of electricity, which the OCDSB will sell back to the province at microFIT rates, producing a net profit of around $120,000 each year over the next 20 years for the school board.

Andrew Block, a spokesman for Energy Minister, says this renewable energy deal is about education, not the extra revenue, but school boards across Ontario are perennially strapped for cash.

This move shows great initiative on the part of the Ottawa board.

According to Ms. Curry, chairwoman of the public school board, “Trustees have been asking for new and innovative ways to increase our revenue and, for sure, the trustees are excited.”

Some Bright Soul Once Said ...

"A school is a building which has four walls on the outside, and our future on the inside."

McGuinty Government Continues To Invest In Green Economy

Ontario's elementary and secondary schools have significant energy costs -- nearly half a billion dollars each year. The aim of the Renewable Energy Initiative is to help these schools and their boards reduce costs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing valuable learning experiences for today's youth. Ontario's green industry also stands to benefit as this investment provides opportunities for suppliers of renewable energy technologies across the province.

It is expected that most of Ontario's 72 school boards will be availing themselves of this McGuinty government opportunity.

Call Sunrise for any questions on roof top or ground mount installations

Residential and

Solutions for a brighter day!