Wisconsin K-12 schools can now get assistance going solar! Solar on Schools is an initiative of the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA). In 2019, with the Couillard Solar Foundation’s support, the MREA developed Solar on Schools to provide a range of resources to Wisconsin schools. The program aims to help schools realize the financial, educational, and community benefits of going solar.
Since the cost of energy usage is a significant expense for public schools, and energy costs keep rising, many schools have already gone with a Solar PV installation to reduce their operating expenses. According to the Couillard Solar Foundation, Wisconsin public schools spend more than $175 million annually on energy, the largest expense outside of personnel. Solar offers a unique way for schools to transition away from fossil fuels and move toward using economical and clean renewable energy.
Solar installations can also be utilized as educational opportunities for students giving them hands-on experience in a renewable energy curriculum. Additionally, with the solar industry growing so much in the last 10 years, there is an increase in demand for skilled labor jobs in the renewable energy sector. Providing such a program gives students more career awareness in this growing field.
For Wisconsin schools interested in starting a solar journey, Solar on Schools offers several free resources, provides access to grants, assists with tax credits and other incentives, and helps identify additional sources of funding. They provide templates for site assessments, energy profiles, financial analysis, and RFPs (Requests for Proposals). They offer curriculum and teacher training resources. They also have created a detailed FAQ document (link below) that clearly and visually answers a multitude of questions for any school considering going solar.
If you are interested in learning more about Solar on Schools, or this initiative, please click on one of the resources listed below, or contact us at Endries Solar and Electric.
Solar-on-Schools-Flyer-June-2022_01.pdf (midwestrenew.org)
Solar on Schools – Midwest Renewable Energy Association