Seven Mid West schools included in State Government’s clean energy fund

Seven Mid West schools are set to turn green with clean energy and solar as part of the first round of a $44.6 million State Government fund.

Wandina and Rangeway primary schools in Geraldton and Pia Wadjarri Remote Community School in the Murchison are among 91 WA schools to receive funding under the Schools Clean Energy Technology Fund.

They will have solar panels installed to help reduce their environmental footprint and energy costs.

Under the scheme, Synergy’s Virtual Power Plant pilot program will be expanded to include seven schools in the Mid West and Gascoyne.

In the Mid West, Geraldton Senior High School, Champion Bay Senior High School, Holland Street School and Kalbarri District High School have been selected to receive VPPs. They will each be equipped with battery energy storage systems and smart VPP technology to make the most of WA’s solar resources.

Education Minister Sue Ellery said the State Government was committed to funding new initiatives that reduced schools’ environmental impact.

“While the Virtual Power Plants reduce emissions, they also have the benefit of providing incredible learning opportunities for students,” she said.

Applications for round two will open to schools in term two this year.