Solar Energy Lights Florida Classrooms
One of Florida’s newest schools, the two year old West Florida High School for Advanced Technology in Pensacola, has flipped the switch on the first solar electric system installation in Florida’s Solar for Schools Program.
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), together with Gulf Power, the Florida Solar Energy Center and Escambia County Schools, participated in the opening ceremony for the newly installed solar electric system.
This first solar electric system installation launches Florida’s Solar for Schools Program, which aims to place 29 solar electric systems in schools throughout the state. A first of its kind in Florida, the public-private partnership combines clean energy production with science in schools. The system will provide an on-site classroom for students to learn more about solar power and the benefits of energy conservation.
“The solar facility will be a valuable teaching tool and will give students an opportunity to view energy from another perspective,” said West Florida High School Principal Lesa Morgan.
“Planning for future energy needs ensures a brighter tomorrow for Florida,” said Allan Bedwell, DEP deputy secretary for regulatory programs and energy. “Installing solar technology in our schools protects our environment and quality of life and also provides an unparalleled educational opportunity for students.”
Unlike fossil fuels, the energy created by the solar unit emits no noise or pollution. The electric power generated by the system will be used to power the school’s classrooms, with excess energy returned to the local power grid.
“Florida’s energy and environmental futures are inextricably linked,’ said Bedwell. “The most important source of energy is the energy we conserve. Advancing clean energy technology conserves resources, prevents pollution, saves taxpayer dollars and, in this case, teaches valuable lessons to the leaders of tomorrow.”
West Florida High School is the only school in Escambia County participating in the Solar for Schools Program. The school integrates traditional academic subjects with technical training to prepare students for employment or post-secondary education.
The Florida Energy Office is funding the installation of solar electric systems in Florida Schools as a part of the Florida Solar for Schools Program. Florida’s Solar for Schools Program is funded by the Florida Energy Office and managed by the Florida Solar Energy Center.
The Center is providing the engineering design for system installations and inspections, and posting select metered data online at: http://www.fsec.unf.edu
Provided by theEnvironmental News Service.