The long awaited Phase 2 of the Schools Photovoltaic Programme for schools across Ireland is finally here. Launched originally in 2023 the scheme was an overwhelming success with over 1000 schools across 11 counties receiving a free installation of up to 6kW of solar panels. Now the government has confirmed the scheme will be rolled out to all schools across the country. The scheme is funded from the government’s Climate Action Fund, in line with the government’s recognition that taking action on climate change is central to Ireland’s social and economic development
An installation of 6kW of Solar is typically a 14 panel roof mounted solar photovoltaic system. A system of this size can generate savings of up to 50% on energy bills for smaller rural schools nationwide and reduce their reliance on traditional energy production methods. Not only is this great for the environment it also helps redirect much needed funds to other areas of the schools budget.
At Blackwell Energy we are proud to have played a major part in the first phase of the program completing over 35 solar installs in the qualifying counties. Extending the scheme to the rest of the country is a huge leap forward and show the governments commitment to battling climate change. As secondary and very important benift of the scheme will be to educate our next generation of the importance of incorporating renewable energy as we move forward to a greener future
Each school across the country is entitled to 6kW of Free solar under the government funded project. A 6kW installation can go a long way to making a serious reduction to schools current energy needs. Having a 6kW system will produce savings of approximately €1,200 per year and usually costs over €10,000 to install. As well as the obvious savings to the schools budget the install also goes a long way to reducing the schools carbon footprint.
Applications are open from Monday the 11th November and apply to all primary, post-primary and special schools across the country. The Department of Education will be inviting all eligible schools to apply for the funding through a tender process. To avail of the grant each school must have the infrastructure in place to install a solar system on the building. Blackwell Energy are on hand to carry out a free site survey to asses your schools compatibility. Contact us today to speak to one of our solar consultants to arrange your onsite survey
To Apply for the Schools PV Programme for your school simply follow the 5 steps below or contact us here at info@blackwellenergy.ie for more information. Applications are to be submitted online through a designated School Hub. Each of the 1,340 schools will receive a unique username and password to enable them to log into the Hub. Funding is available for up to a maximum of 16 solar panels per school under the Schools Photovoltaic Programme (SPP). SPP is a devolved programme meaning that school authorities will be provided with funding from the Department to have panels installed by a registered contractor.
Complete Expression of Interest
Obtain five quotes from suppliers
Funding Approval
Works Completion and Final Payment
Performance Feedback of PV 12 months post installation
With the first phase of the Schools Photovoltaic Programme (SPP) being a huge success delivering free solar panels to over 1000 schools across Ireland, the government has launched phase 2. As part of the scheme each and every school is eligible for 6kW of free solar which equates to a 12 – 14 panel system. Registration for the scheme is open from 11th November 2024 and is on a tender basis. The governments hopes for the scheme are the obvious financial and climate benefits, but also it is hoped that the visibility of the solar panels on schools will also encourage the discussion and uptake of the technology in the wider community. Blackwell Energy are on hand to assist with schools across the country with any question or queries in relation to getting a quote or booking a free onsite survey
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